Here is an 18 size watch marked "J.S. Townsend 1554 Wabash Ave. Chicago Superior 15 Jewels Adjusted" serial number 397315. My research found that Townsend was a retailer of early railroad watches. Is this a Hampden? (based on the serial number and dated old jeweler publication articles it seems to be). Any other noteworthy info about this watch?
"Hernick & Arnold" shows this as a Model 3 Grade 57 11J, numbered in a run from 397014 to 397677, but has many missing numbers, and within that range 2 numbers, (397305 and 397311) are identified (J S Townsend 1554 Wabash Ave. Chicago) and are 15J OF model 3 nickel.
Dave Turner
Posts: 1979 | Location: Wilson, North Carolina in the USA | Registered: November 15, 2011
Barry: I have one a Hampden 18 size, Hunter movement, private-label dial and movement marked JS Townsend Superior 15 Jewels, 1554 Wabash Ave. Chicago Serial No. 466435 Manufactured 1886 double sunk Roman numeral dial. JS Townsend is marked on the top plate where the serial number is on yours.
Posts: 3370 | Location: Okotoks Alberta Canada | Registered: November 22, 2002
And finally A full-page back cover Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen Magazine November 1893 advertisement from JS Townsend, offering Gold Watch's from $9.00 Upwards, with diamonds from $18.00. The Leading Railroad Jeweler Established 1877. Offering A Match Safe Showing World's Fair Buildings, Raised Work, will be given to any one ordering goods to the amount of $5.00, with illustrations of gold emblems for Ladies Auxiliary to the B of LE, and Grand Lodge L.A. To BRT, and Crown gold pocket watch cases. Also offering Grand Officers Jewels, and Regalias.
Larry
Posts: 3370 | Location: Okotoks Alberta Canada | Registered: November 22, 2002
