There were hundreds if not thousands of RR watch inspectors, what was their regulatory body. You sometimes hear of an inspector passing a particular watch for service even tho it was not on the list, and keeping in mind most, if not all, of these inspectors were in the business of selling watches, who was privy to his records ? I find it hard to believe that either the RR involved, or Mr. Ball, or anyone spent the time to on a regular basis go over the thousands of records maintained, or not, of the inspectors actions. Keeping in mind it was relatively easy to make any 17j up watch maintain RR accuracy, no matter whether stem or lever set, PL dial or Hunter case. What do you think ?
Bill

Hello Bill:

On the CPR all qualified watch inspectors were approved by the CPR's Time Service Department, all forms filled out by the watch inspectors were meticulously monitored, watch inspectors responsible for sending them to the Time Service Department that was located in Winnipeg, Manitoba for the Western region, and in Montréal, Québec for the Eastern region. Detailed monthly reports were submitted with railway watches added to service, and reports of employees who were negligent in bringing their watches in for inspection were duly noted. And if you were on the list, you would be getting a letter through your superintendent's office, that you had better get your watch card up to date, or face discipline. I hope this answers part of your question. Webb C. Ball, would have the same type of setup with all the railroads in his jurisdiction. The same would be for Henry S. Montgomery on the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe railroad between 1896, and 1921.

Larry

Larry,
Thanks for your quick and comprehensive answer, it covers most of the points,
Bill

Good question, good answer.