A pocket watch is a great accessory to have. Whether you want to collect, present, use to tell time on a daily basis, or even invest in this clock, it will undoubtedly satisfy your needs.
While wristwatches have remained popular over the previous century, pocket watches were once (and still are to many) a really traditional and unmatched timepiece. They were so dependable that the American Railway Association issued a rigorous dress rule in 1893 that required the usage of one. Despite the fact that models worn and used by train employees are now commonly referred to as “railroad pocket watches,” they are not! Around the turn of the century, a watch worn by a rail worker may have been worn by a renowned lawyer or merchant.
We have learned to appreciate and admire the heyday of the pocket watch in this day and age. We recognise that these devices cannot be replaced by any plastic gadget or new electronic equipment; in fact, when the power goes off or the batteries run out, these unique timepieces continue to function normally, displaying the time as if there were no other world outside. They are “unaffected” by electricity and technology in many respects; whereas everyone else relies on plugged-in or charged-up devices to tell time, we have our pocket watch.
Fortunately, it was a huge success! When I informed him that railworkers – working guys who were probably substantially responsible for America’s industrial revolution and a wonderful source of transportation during the 1800s and 1900s – used these identical type watches, he was impressed.
First and foremost, common sense reigns supreme. Your unique timepiece can survive decades, if not centuries, if properly cared for, allowing you to pass it on to family or friends in the future. Here are my top five favourite (and most obvious) suggestions for keeping a pocket watch in good working order:
Keep it in your hands or put it away on a shelf or in a drawer! Dropping one is like to using scotch tape to repair a boat. It’s simply not a good idea!
Extreme weather was not designed for pocket watches. Quite cold or hot temperatures are extremely harmful to them. Extreme humidity or aridity might affect your watch’s accuracy, so be cautious. Naturally, some humidity or dryness is unavoidable, so take precautions.
DO NOT carry your watch in the same pocket as your keys, money, or other metal items. I don’t think I need to say much more about it.
To clean or wipe your watch, use a soft, nonabrasive towel or cloth, and it’s fine to use some types of wax polish on the casing. However, use caution!
Every couple of years, it’s a good idea to get your watch serviced and maintained. Many people ask me how to care for a pocket watch, and the short answer is that you don’t have to! Professional jewellers and watchmakers study for years and are specialists in all things related to timepieces. If you have your make and model number handy, you may simply acquire a price for some essential pocket watch repair over the phone (in most situations). It’s not uncommon for a watch repairman to want to view the watch in person, and there’s nothing wrong with it.
It’s not a terrible idea to go to a few establishments or phone a few to obtain a price on service. It isn’t free, but it will undoubtedly enhance the quality of your pocket watch and help it last longer.
That’s all there is to it! That latter aspect is critical, and I cannot emphasise it enough. I understand that not everyone can afford to get their watch repaired in a down economy or simply due to a lack of funds. If you can’t afford it, tell the watchmaker up front. They will occasionally give you a break. Otherwise, please don’t try to take matters into your own hands if you don’t have any luck! These clocks are quite specific devices, and tampering with the internal moving components might cost you a lot of time and money, as well as the loss of a magnificent and classic wristwatch.
Pocket Watch Value
What is the value of my pocket watch? When talking to people who are interested in pocket watches, this is a common question.
The “formula” for assessing the worth of a pocket watch is straightforward if you have a genuine antique: It is based on the current state of affairs. If your pocket watch shows symptoms of wear (but not damage), as well as a few blemishes or scratches, it is considered to be in “fair condition.” Anything in better condition has a higher monetary value.
While I can’t comment on the monetary value of any of them – after all, that’s what someone will pay for them – I hope this serves as a starting point for you. If you’re really worried about the worth of your pocket watch, I recommend getting an independent evaluation from a watchmaker or jeweller. They have no reason to misinterpret the genuine monetary value of your pocket watch if you declare your goals explicitly.
Antique elgin pocket watches and vintage elgin pocket watch can be found at Bidquare’s online auction.
