Would a Ball railroad grade ever be cased in a screw off front and a hinged rear case?

Bill I don't think Ball had any Ball marked cases like that but given that Ball movements were sold by jewelers who fitted them to the case desired by the buyer I cannot think it wasn't done.

I concur Deacon, I've never seen a Ball Model case like that either. The Ball Model-marked cases were either screwed or hinged as far as I know.

The closest thing to that I can think of in a Ball Model-marked case is a swing ring type (see picture), but I don't think that's what Bill means.


Swing Ring Ball Model Case
Photo Credit: Larry Buchan

I have the same Ball Canadian case, though much rougher, and the thought I have is that a fellow wanting a Ball might have liked the Wadsworth/Sangamo hinged back case and used that. I haqve a Waltham indicator that was probably purchased from a Ball dealer and the buyer apparently liked a white gold stirrup bow case. Hey in 1933 if you were selling an expensive watch you would want to make the customer happy!

Here is a picture

Bill, you have a very very nice "official" Ball watch case. Top Shelf!

Yes indeed, 20th Century Model hunter, you don't see those very often!

Thanks guys!

Bill that is a beautiful case I have never seen before. I have no idea what it is worth but it is rare I would say and no doubt would bring a good price!