I've been wanting to purchase a 990 for some time, a beautiful movement...been bidding and getting outbid..

A question came to mind as I started looking at 990 movements for sale.

Did this model go through a transition from 4 foot to 3 foot dials similar to 992? Or, are these all 4 foot dials?

Gary, the 990 used both 4 and 3 foot dials. According to the list that Dr. Lasser compiled, the first S/N for the 3 foot was 850301 early in 1912.

Bob

Keep up the chase, Gary. The 990 is worth the effort. I love mine.

According to the Gelson list, mine is a 1906 graduate, two screw design on the crown wheel and 4 foot dial.

I'm carrying mine it a glass back case 'as we speak'.

Regard! Mark

Gary I think I have 2 of them.

I agree, keep up the search. I have 2 990s, one in a display case the other in a glass back Wadsworth BOC case that I carry from time to time. Beautiful movement. Take a look at this thread for some nice pics and info on the 990. It talks to the 2 vs 1 screw design on the crown wheel as well as some mention of the 4 foot and 3 foot dials and their timeframes.

As a side note, if I remember correctly the 970 is of similar design, but I am not sure about the characteristics ...
Dan

Thanks so much for all the great info...I'll soak the education before buying one...have way too many 992, 992B...this is a more beautiful movement ad far less common.