When you are talking Illinois Springfield workmanship, it is not surprising that what sometimes looks "Plain" on the outside . . .

Illnois chose (for 200 pieces at least) to make breathtaking "on ths inside" . . . the Gold book refers to this as "Gold Plated" and valued it in 1980 at $75-$100 putting it over $300.00 today (less case).

This rare "5Th pinion" transitional movement came from the Springfield factory sometime in 1882. It may have been a private order or it may be the precursor to the many famous variants on a theme that Illinois made in celebration of the Indians concluding with Sangamo . . .

an all original movement with hand signed and scaled Illinois factory dial of this quality is protected by one of the eminently robust Deuber 3 ounce coin silver cases of that period.! What a find! What a collectible. After it was fully cleaned and serviced according to Chris Abell's 16 points, it tries like heck to run railroads!

Hi Dave, I've been wondering how you were progressing with the Chieftan. Looks really super, another great save.

Gary

Looks great David. I remember you winning it because I chose not to be against you. I'm glad I did not bid against you as you did a great restoration on it. Congratulations.