I have some questions regarding salesman's display cases. First off, were movements placed in cases at the factory, and if so, how was it determined what movement to put in these cases? I gather that new improved models would have a preference. Second, is there some time frame that would determine an appropriate movement to a particular case? Third, are there different styles or models of cases, as with RR model cases? I picked up a Hamilton display case today and would like to find a nice period movement for it. Finally, there is a cutout for the setting lever, is this original? All information appreciated, and I would certainly like to see some photos . Thanks. Gary

Gary, Interesting questions. I hope we get some answers from the experts.

I agree with Phil, you have posed some interesting questions regarding the Salesman Display Cases....

My guess is that most of the display cases came from the jeweler and he would put the movement of his choice in a case for his salesmen....just a guess though....others with more knowledge will add their input, I'm sure....

Regards,
Jerry

These Factory display cases that Lindell has described so well were part of a "family" of styles and three other types I have seen are;
First; Waltham's double Glass faced "Can" that is wire sling-mounted in a wooden box. (pic)
Second; Cases made specifically without bows which seemed to be for "show" but are non-apecific to manufacturer.
Third; Some regular production watch cases that Watchmakers cut out the back cover and installed a Glass crystal so the owners could better "show off" their fine watch without opening it.

I have a Hampden 18 size sling mounted display case, it is styled more like a conventional watch case. I will post a picture later.

Larry

Thanks for the replies everyone, the case I had referred to is a size 16, Hamilton marked piece.
The stem does snap into winding position and the back bezel is not as snug as the front. Regards. Gary

Hi Gary, I can remember seeing display cases without crystals trashed behind a jewelery store in Atlantic Iowa. Interestingly, Dueber-Hampden cases were made without bails as they were for display only. Also Dueber cases are sometimes found with a gold wash at least in 18 size. I have a 23j New Railway in one. Finally, Jewelers could purchase better quality nickle snap on cases presumably for other makes. I have had a few and they are just a bit nicer than say the Hamilton cases. Also, some people have made display cases out of nickle cases with screw backs and bezels.

I have always assumed display backs were all on open face cases, threaded, and interchangeable with the front bezel until I found this hunter case model that has a snap-on glass back.

The case maker's logo is plain to see and fairly common. Does anyone know the name of the case maker?

Mike

Nice case & watch. That symbol was from the Dueber Watch Case Mfg. Company, Canton & Cincinnati, OH & Chicago, Il., it was issued July 19, 1887 for claim Filled Cases for watches. This is from page 99 of US Horological Trademark Index by Meyers.

Tom

Much grass, Tom! I inked it in Cooksie's book where it is not identified. I presume he is turned away from his bench and holding up a watch there that reads about 12:15. He's got knobby knees. Haha!

Well your better at deciphering that than me, I had no idea what he was doing.

Tom

Either he is holding up a pocket watch, or he is "shielding" something from harm - as would a watch case; something like that.

The logo is a naked Gladiator holding a shield in one hand and a sword in the other.