What model Illinois watch was used as the starting point for the Illinois - Ball watch? Was this watch finished by Illinois or Hamilton? What is the history of this highly collectable piece? Those of you specializing in these watches, please let me know your thoughts.
Joel Sarich

Joel

Model 11 finished by Hamilton after Hamilton aquired Illinois Watch Company. The hands, the Hamilton-Illinois-Ball connection make this not so rare watch highly collectable. Also one of my favorites.

Robert

Good points Robert!

Hi Joel, Ball-Illinois movements seem to have started in 1929 after the Hamilton takeover. Serial numbers run from B800001 through B803500 and they differ from the 23-Jewel Bunn Special they are based upon not only in the numbers but several appearance and mechanical features as well. If you check the Meggers Illinois book on page 143 the late Bill Meggers left us this interesting synopsis...


"These watches differ mechanically from the regular Illinois Model 11 movements in several respects; most notable are the different shaped plates and ratchet wheel click and the different type of hairspring stud and lever setting mechanism. These last two differences which were undoubtedly were Ball Watch Company requirements, may have been responsible for the assignment of a special serial number block to clearly differentiate these watches from regular Illinois production."


Every now and then authenticity questions and theories come into play about the unusual pierced hands Robert mentioned that we generally associate with Ball-Illinois watches. However the best and most authoritative information we derive from experts and collectors, some of whom actually had access to unsold original watches, is they originally came with the unique pierced hands we collectors so covet today.

These watches are very special, they represent the only Railroad Grade watches produced at Illinois in Springfield for The Ball Watch Company of Cleveland, Ohio and of course we all need to own at least one example...


Here is number B802958 from my collection...

Its one of my favorite watches. Many long time collectors don't understand the premium these watches bring over comparable Ham-ball's.

The watch is sought by Illinois collectors and Ball collectors, two breeds that do not shy away from seemingly high prices. For the Illinois collector, it is a moderately low production item, its 23j, its a separate grade within the Illinois line up, and THOSE HANDS.

For the Ball collector it is a moderately low production number (compared to the Hamilton 999's), its 23j, its the only Illinois RR grade in the Ball stables, and THOSE HANDS.

It has received some bashing on the green board as prices continue to rise, but much of that sounded like remorse from those who sold theirs at then astronmical prices of $800 or so. It's hard to buy one back at $4k when you sold it at $800.

I like them. And THOSE HANDS!!!


Charlie

Thank you all! This is what I really love about this chapter! I have owned two of these, but now I have none. The last one went for just over 2K. I don't know if I will ever own another one. Maybe, who knows! Thank you again!
Joel

Lindell;
That is one beautiful watch. Other than the exquisite hands (I have a soft spot for pierced hands) is there anything special about the case? It appears as though there is a very low relief decorative design laid over the bulk of the case itself. It is too crisp looking to have been stamped into the case when it was made and is not inset as would be the situation if the decoration had been engraved. I have seen a few such cases (Made of white gold?), but do not know anything about them. Can you shed some light? Thanks.

Hi. Have one of these watches in WG with the same case back design as the photo'. Are printed details available of the various case designs, have seen a few in the 'complete guide to watches' but the numbers aren't consecutive. An old thread but still relevant!! Thanks