August 01, 2011, 12:24
Bill MandersGruen Display
Hi all,
I have come across these 2 early Gruen display stands, for both wrist and pocket watches. I was wondering if anyone had seen this type of item before and could tell me about them, year, use, what type of retailer would have them etc.? I believe they are made of brass and both have a wonderful patina on them.
Thanks for any and all information,
Bill
August 01, 2011, 12:31
Bill MandersThese items were in an antique store in Saskatchewan, and I stated I needed to check on what they actually were, before I made a decision on buying them or not. It appears one side is for a w/w and the other a p/w., and they are both about 12"long x 10" h x 6" w.
Thanks,
Bill
August 02, 2011, 11:29
Tom Brunton2 splendid watchmakers advertising pieces Bill

but I suspect brass plated pot metal from the looks of the chips and cracks, but spectacular nevertheless

I think they are very scarce , and quite wonderful

and wish they belonged to I only

August 02, 2011, 11:55
Buster BeckYes they are striking !! I would tap/thump on them to make sure they are metal [plaster castings would have the same weight and today's applied finishes can be very deceptive]. If so, they appear to be what is called "spelter" instead of bronze or brass. Still nice find !!
regards,
bb
August 02, 2011, 15:05
Walter ColkBill I remember such critters while playing in the store basement as a young fellow, most were a plaser cast but some were a bronze? brass? material. The object was to focus the customers attention to their watch or products. Mostly for window or wall case as they were to high for the standard show case. Quite a find since most were thrown out as lines changed and a dealer promoted new watch products.
August 02, 2011, 18:39
Eugene BuffardI agree with everyones comments. If they are still available. You should purchase them.
August 03, 2011, 09:52
Bill MandersThanks for all the comments, now I have to make my mind up as to but or not.
I also had never seen these before, and although I don't have any Gruens thought it might be a couple of nice pieces.
Thanks again for all the input,
Bill
August 04, 2011, 18:26
Ernie LogaBill: Great find. If you are not interested in purchasing them or would like to make a modest profit I am interested in purchasing them from you.
Ernie Loga.
August 05, 2011, 11:46
Larry BuchanHello Bill:
A great find, I wouldn't hesitate about buying them. Good luck.
Larry