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?

Thank you for your input....

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looks like Hampden model 3

Yep I think it's a Hampden as well ...

AND I think it's Very Cool ......

Just a note if your were not aware, J.S. Townsend was a watch inspector for the ATSF, I found him listed in an 1898 publication.

Tom

"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.

Nice private label Hampden, Thanks for sharing.
Gary

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.

Double sunk Roman numeral dial.

Here is a small quarter page advertisement from the November, 1891 issue of the Locomotive Engineers Journal

Another quarter page advertisement from the November 1893 issue of the Locomotive Engineers Journal

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

Thanks for the input, everyone!