I collect Hamilton 992's. So any information about this Illinois will help. Do the hands, case and dial look correct? Any information on the year of production would also help. Thank's for any help or information.

Bernie Babauta

more pics.

one more

back

inside cover

better pic

Good evening and welcome to IHC185

If I have read the serial number correctly i.e. 5510722, then the following information from the pocket watch database would appear to apply.

Grade: 161A


Type IIB 60hr. Elinvar.
Movement Serial Number: 5510722
Estimated Production Year: 1932
Run Quantity: 2,000
Size: 16s
Jewels: 21j
Movement Configuration: Openface

Movement Finish: Nickel
Model: 15
Movement Setting: Lever
Plate: 3/4 Plate
Double Roller: Yes
Barrel: 60-Hr. Motor
Adjusted: Yes
Adjusted to Positions: 6
Adjusted to Temperature: Yes
Railroad Grade: Yes
Notes: Type IIB 60hr. Elinvar.

Those folks with access to the Illinois records will be able to confirm or deny these findings.

Regards

David

Bernadino, as a Hamilton collector you will find many kindred spirits in IHC185. Our many resources of parts, service and research will reward you many times over our $12.00 registration maintenance fee.

Your Illinois Bunn Special 161A watch was among the last made in 1932 at the Springfield Illinois factory. By 1933 management was moved under the direct control of Hamilton Watch Co. personnel.

So your Illinois 161A Bunn Special s/n5510722 is a "crossover" piece that connects your selected collection of Hamilton work to some of the finest pocket watches made in USA which also were the first to manufacture high accuracy and production 60 hour movements.

Your 161A variant enjoyed production of only a few over 5500 movements included the 1790 piece run that yours was in. The case is a Bunn Special, but has me puzzled a little bit with the Bow design. Could Be a service replacement.

I'm not an expert but I think it looks like a very nice watch. The bow looks correct but possibly worn. Am I missing something here?

I can't read everything in the case back but the serial number seems to be in the range of a 1928 production Bunn First Model case. Also the hands look to be plum colored and if they are I believe the watch year of 1932 is well into the blue hands.

Stev

I think 1931 was the last year for the 1st model case, wasn't it? I'm seeing a Model 29 case on most of these 161 series of this vintage

If you look in the Illinois section here, I believe you'll find most or all of the info you're searching for.