A week ago I went to the local Apple Store to browse computers. I had just visited my local watch shop and seen his new iPhone, see discussion here.

When I walked in, I was greeted by a former student (graduated from my HS in 04) now a college senior, who shares my interest in astronomy. Well, I bought my MacBook from her, but the point is the pocket watch she showed me, which her family bought for her recent birthday.

It's a beautiful 16S 15J HC Elgin. Very nice, if average, model 6 movement, but the case is spectacular. Sterling silver HC case (probably original), with applied rose & yellow gold flowers. If memory serves, it also has green enamel leaves for the flowers. The dust cover was unengraved, so the family had her (and my) favorite constellation, Orion, engraved on it (with her name & occasion at the bottom). I know some might cringe at a pristine cuvette being engraved, but I think it's great. Watch, dial, hands & case are all clean, and probably original (as much as I could judge from a relatively quick examination). I showed her how to properly open & close the cover, and to safely open the back. The watch has been serviced, but I let her know where she could get it serviced locally, and the need for regular cleaning.

A real fun day, just wish I'd gotten pictures of the beauty. I didn't take down the SN, but she says the dealer dates it to c. 1910, and it looks right for that time.

Norman

I think that's great, it only goes to show that these "works of art" are still at it, and running strong.

I often want to engrave my watches with the known information about them, but hold off because I know that most collectors don't like to see anyting on a watch case.
I love to see what the past has to say on a vintage watch.

I sure wish you had a picture too, and it looks like a CAMERA PHONE would have been a good thing to have in a situation like this one!!!

More gadgets! lolol