I am not a railroad watch collector, but I recently bought a very nice looking Hamilton 992B. Not being a railroad watch collector, I am perhaps less concerned with complete originality that many of you, especially when complete originality includes a melamine dial. So, when I had the opportunity to buy a very pristine looking 992B with an enamel dial, I jumped on it.

So please gently tell me whether I have screwed up badly.

The watch has a 10k ygf Model 17 case, #PO77944. The movement is #C477717.

Back

Crown

Another crown shot

Dial

Case back

Movement

Serial number

I think that you have a very nice, almost NOS example of a 992B. As you pointed out, it does not have the original dial, but the much better earlier dial for the watch. From a practical point, you have the best combination of components in terms of quality and long term utility. Being that the watch is in NOS condition, I would not recommend using it as a daily carrier, but that's your call. If you choose not to carry the watch, I would restore it to original configuration to preserve it as an original collector’s piece. I would take the dial and apply it to a carry watch in the 1940-1950 era that was factory correct. There is nothing wrong with deciding to carry the watch "as is" as long as you know the depreciation factor in doing so. Enjoy the watch, its a nice one! That's my two cents worth.

Beautiful watch Ethan. Nice job with the pictures too.

Very nice example Ethan. But echoing Matt's sentiments, if it were mine I'd keep it in pristine condition & not carry it every day.

The butler finish on the back cover will be gone in a few months if you choose to carry it. A stainless steel Model 15 case would be every bit as authentic and much more durable in a carrying situation.

Ethan, I can just see you now, you on your way to negotiate with tough longshoremen. You in your three piece suit, a nice solid gold double Albert chain, as you pull out that beautiful 992B. And there mouths slack open and you leave them speechless.
(to be continued)

Ethan,
If it were me I would not carry the watch but just put it in some type of display case at home. The case appears to be in like new condition. Just one persons opinion.