I was out looking for watches today and found this interesting one that I would like a bit more information on. What first drew my attention was the low serial number Hamilton 936, No 11,907 Wasn’t sure being a PL not only on dial but movement also. I make this one to be about 1894, needs a good clean, case brassed out but look original. Any more informaiton on it? And what style second hand?

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Chris,

I own and have seen a number of private label Hamilton's with Howe Bros. markings. This one however, is the first I've seen with this colored "logo" dial.

The Chicago Northwestern railroad goes through Clinton, IA which is north of the quad cities on the Illinois border. The logo on the dial appears to be a take off of "The Northwestern Line" logo associated with the railroad.

A very interesting PL which I would suggest picking up. If not interested, please let me know as I would be

Rhett

Hi Rhett,

I picked up the watch, So the logo is that of the Chicago Northwestern railroal copy?, but who was Howe Bros, a local jewelers of that area using the RR logo as a sign of quality?.
This would have been a high grade watch of it time if I am right and a then RR approved grade.
PS will try and get a better colour image of the logo.

You have made a fascinating find. I have 11,786 - just 121 numbers away but not private label. George Townsend's notes indicate that the run was from 11,251 to 12,000 dating from 1898.

I have been talking to a friend and he under the impression that there is some connection with Howe's Bros and the official Railway time-keepers of that RR line, and he seems to think that it is a official symbol. Could they have been the company responsible (sub Contractors) to the Chicago Northwestern railroad for the RR watch maintenance? Can anyone elaborate/verify this?
Gets more interesting the more you ask about these things.

Chris,

Yes, I believe Howes Bros were inspectors on the subject line. The private label markings on this watch are obviously an attempt to play off that association.

In the late 1800's and very early 1900's, a number of jewelers and inspectors had private labels marked with railroad or railroad associated markings. Illinois and Hamilton were the most prolific in this practice. As time went on and the railroads disallowed the use of watches with private label markings, this practice subsided.

With a few noteworthy exceptions, these watches were not ordered or sanctioned by the railroads themselves.

Here's a scan of the North Western logo, for purposes of comparison.

Thanks Rhett, John

I see what Rhett means about the logo being a copy, an exact copy all bar the wording, thanks for posting it.
Would Howes Bros, been THE, timekeepers on that that RR on account that people would copy there works logo.
Rhett, do the other watches you mention also have Howes Bros on the movement?.
This colour one is fired in.

Chris,

Yes, The other watches are also marked on the dial and movement. I've seen 18 size watches in both 17 and 21 Jewels as well as 16 size.

I am currently out of town, but can provide more information when I return later this evening or tomorrow.

Rhett

Ok Rhett, will look out for you later.

Thanks to Lindell for being the mine of information as always and finding the information about the Timekeepers it really made this a special find for me

As Lindell said and judging by the emails I received; a desirable item,

quote:

Assuming the "The Howe Bros. Special" to be fired into the glaze it's very special.

Like John said, congratulations on quite a fascinating find!