Hamilton serial numbers and dates??

October 10, 2010, 02:08

Larry Lamphier

I'm curious, how can a 950 serial number 752739 = 1910, and another 950 serial # 750201 = 1911?

Is it the way they blocked the numbers?

Regards,
Larry

October 13, 2010, 16:28

Lindell V. Riddle

In some instances they essentially set blocks of numbers "aside" and built them later than what we would perceive today as earlier numbers. Often unfinished movements sat in their vaults for periods of time that we find hard to comprehend from our present-day standpoint. To specifics, the number 750201 you mentioned and that block of 500 you were referred to were Pendant Set movements and since they sold more slowly that could be the simple explanation as to what caused them to sit a bit longer, sometimes four or more years longer in the vaults.

This is another point you may find interesting, the movements were placed in wooden trays, ten per, and at the end of each day the trays went into the vault. We must consider the fact that on occasion newer material was placed in front, newer movements might then be finished and shipped sooner. We do not do business that way, so we find this difficult to comprehend, today careful, computerized tracking is so much a part of our lives.

They were not dealing in butter and eggs, there was no expiration date on watches.

Factory watch storage trays usually held ten movements...

October 13, 2010, 19:36

Larry Lamphier

Well, now I understand it a little Better Lindell. Thank you for the explination.

We can always count on you to help on the hard ones!

Regards,
Larry

October 14, 2010, 18:26

Joe W. Campbell

thanks Lindell. I often think that from 1900-1940 it was such a different world than now. what I wouldn't give to be able to have seen it first hand!