Internet Horology Club 185
Pocket Watch Chains

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https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/1086047761/m/1821086361

September 02, 2005, 17:58
Pete Cronos
Pocket Watch Chains
How does one tell if a Pocket Watch Chain is correct? The ends of the chain where it hooks to the watch or to a belt loop may be marked Simmons or Sterling or various other ways. How do you tell if this is correct for the chain? You could have a Sterling or Gold Clip with a chain that looks to be gold or silver but is not.
Any pointers?

Thanks
Pete
September 02, 2005, 19:51
Harvey J. Mintz
If you want to be sure with Sterling chains, stick to the English made chains - every link is hallmarked.
July 02, 2010, 21:16
John J. Dolan
This may be a bit off subject but it is about chains. I have an Illinois 23J bunn special(1928).

The case is 14K two tone(factory patterned) Keystone. I have seen several chains on auction on e-bay but I am unsure of what would be appropriate for the watch. Any info. or pictures would
be most helpful.

Thanks ,
john j dolan
July 03, 2010, 08:55
Cecil McGee
Hey John, I have had this chain for many years,and don't remember where I got it,but every other link is silver,and every other link is gold,or gold filled. Even the small round links are like that. A chain similar to this might look good with your watch.


July 03, 2010, 09:07
Phillip Sanchez
John, these work well also and leave no marks

contact Mr. Kyle Shold at kyleshold@gmail.com.

Hopefully he is still making them. Smile

https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/f...06013713/m/116003885

Kyle Shold website


July 05, 2010, 20:30
Robert Schussel
Pete
Normally chains marked Simmons etc are gold filled etc.

For dress watches just one or both ends are marked 14kt etc.If you see brassing anywhere then it is not solid gold.

As to what is appropiate, larger watches should have a thicker chain. A dress watch chain normally weighs 6 to 14 grams .

Bob
July 06, 2010, 00:47
Mike LaForest
Cecil! Love that herringbone-like chain! Never saw one like it before.
Mike
July 06, 2010, 05:35
Cecil McGee
Mike,If you want it,it is your's. Give me your address,and I'll send it to you. It has been laying in a drawer here for years unused,and if someone would use it,that would be good.
July 06, 2010, 09:38
Mike LaForest
Cecil! I just sent you a private message with my mailing address. I'm overwhelmed with your generosity, and I thank you very much for your kind offer! I accept, and hope you and the Mrs. will enjoy dinner some night - on me.
Mike
July 06, 2010, 20:11
John J. Dolan
Thanks to Cecil and Phillip for your replies.
The bunn special is a heavy watch and would need a heavy chain . I saw a post of an ad from R.F Simmons Co,circa 1929 with a two-tone chain,holding my watch. I think I will try to find
something like it.

Thanks again
John j dolan