Recently, Rob Jones posted a picture (below) and asked about a "Union Watch" that he was trying to evaluate. Many felt it may be a "Swiss Fake". The discussion is at;

https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/f...6047761/m/6893943077

As in my opinion a "Swiss Fake" looks much like a Classic US-Made watch like this one . . .

I suggested that Rob's was NOT a "Fake", and was actually listed in Ehrhardt Meggans, although they had no picture due to scarcity of the watch. So Rob let me acquire it for further research . . . The FIRST thing I found on dis-assembly were Laminated Pallet Jewels, VERY High end Swiss, often Hand-Made . . .

The second thing became obvious soon afterwards, this was a Hand-Made watch including Hand finished Escapement insert plate, layout compass scribe marks for the wheel train and a stopworks Motor Barrel! Hardly "Fake" work . . .

The 18K Gold filled case has all matching numbers . . .

The plates are marked Union Watch Co., Boston, in two places, also marked "1st Series" and all the key components have matching "7551" serial numbers . . .

After finishing it up, all I can say is that a watch that is this old, presents this well, runs this good, and looks this "different" IS a Swiss watch, 1870 or so but IS NOT a "Swiss Fake" and hardly a "copy".

David-

Looks like a beauty all finished up.

Thanks,

Jared

Dave you truely have an eye for quality. And I am impressed at your skill. Have you had any luck with second hand pinions. Someone cut one off a very rare watch of mine before I received it.

Dave, I agree, Swiss but not a Swiss fake. Pictures really do help.

So what's the difference between a Swiss watch and a Swiss fake?

One that's meant to look like an American (or other) brand?

Looks good Dave always nice to see a watch all restored. There wasnt much wrong with it was there?

Nope Rob, it is fins and going on eBay tonight.