I recently picked up an early Elgin BW Raymond, sn 633. When verifying the serial numbers on the various parts, I discovered the movement contained the Abbott's Conversion and was modified in 1881.

I'm looking for peoples opinions on what impact the Abbott's Conversion has on the value of this watch.

Also, the watch had a dial with "Elgin Nat'l Watch Co." on it instead of "National Watch Co.". The serial number dictates the dial should be "National Watch Co.". With the modification being done after 1874, would this effect the name on the dial?

Another note, there is a dust ring on the movement which is enscribed "Patent Feb 4 1868".

Thanks,
-Steve

Steven, Just my opinion. With an SN that low, I would think the Abbott's conversion would lower the price. The Abbott conversions were made available to jewelers, and many watch owners wanted their watches to be the latest style, ie a stem winder.

As for the dial--the original might have been damaged at the time of the conversion, and the owner wanted a new dial. The one with Elgin national would have been the only one available for replacement at that time. Look closely at the dial with a loop. Is it hand painted or is it a stamped dial. If hand painted, it was probably a jeweler replacement at the time the Abbott's conversion was made. Elgin started using the stamped dials around 1890.

The dust ring is probably original.

Tom

Tom,

I examined the dial and it is hand painted. The seconds chapter is even painted on instead of being single sunk.

I did replace the dial with a National Watch Co. dial that is correct for the serial number.

-Steve