Internet Horology Club 185
Strange case size (Photos now attched), responses welcomed

This topic can be found at:
https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/1086047761/m/752104323

August 04, 2010, 17:25
Mike Hodge
Strange case size (Photos now attched), responses welcomed
Several months ago I purchased a 993 in a Deuber case. The case size has me baffled. it is too large for a 16s, but too small for an 18s. Logic would dictate it is probably a 17s, but then I can't think of any reason for this size case other than possibly a 17s Sangamo. It is a reasonably nice Hunter case. i'm leaving town for several days and do not have a photo and the watch is in the bank vault so if anyone can help I could expect to post a photo next week. Unti then I would love to read comments.
August 04, 2010, 19:59
Mary Ann Scott
Mike - I know that Elgin made some 17 size movements for a couple of years that required special cases (Avery, Inter-Ocean, Leader, etc). I have an Avery in an Avery marked case. So I would tend to believe 17 size cases are few and far between.
August 05, 2010, 00:10
Ray Hallenbeck
Then there are the 16 1/2 size Waltham Equity movements also.
August 05, 2010, 14:08
Lindell V. Riddle

Hi Mike,

The earliest Hamilton 16-size movements were larger than standard size, they were a bit peculiar in other ways as well, possibly this case originally came on one of those movements. It would help to know the movement number on your 993 to provide some context in trying to sort this out.

Lindell

Wink

August 06, 2010, 19:36
Mike Hodge
I'm away from home at the present, but will send the SN when I get home. The movement does not fit the case very well and that is the reason for my quiery.
August 07, 2010, 16:23
Richard M. Jones
Mike, would your Dueber case be for a model 1 Hampden, The raised dome movement can be tricky to case unless it is a Dueber case.


Deacon
August 12, 2010, 22:13
Mike Hodge
As promised here are photos


August 12, 2010, 22:15
Mike Hodge
Another


August 12, 2010, 22:18
Mike Hodge
this is an unmarked 993


August 18, 2010, 13:06
Mike Hodge
I would like your imput now that the photos are posted. Thanks to all
September 22, 2010, 00:13
Mike Hodge
After discussion with Lindell more input is requested. This is a 7XX,XXX numbered mvt and is not correct for this case.
September 22, 2010, 09:28
Buster Beck
Mike,

Some of the first 16size Hamilton's were a bit larger with a larger pillar plate that is well documented. Also some early Walthams were true 17 size and I think perhaps some of the Elgins also, and Howard's, but I'm not sure.

Some wrist watches I've seen have a "filler" or "space ring" that is an insert to allow the watch to properly seat. Perhaps one of those rings can be made or turned, I don't know. Or perhaps, hmmmmm.

I think Mary Ann has a Waltham, I think a 1888 model that requires a larger case. But I don't remember if hers is a hunting case model or an open face. You may try contacting her and see what she needs. It possibly could be sent for a "fit" and see where it goes from there?? Just a suggestion......

I'm sure having a filler plate made would possibly be cost prohibitive Eek

Just food for thought Big Grin

regards,
bb
September 22, 2010, 10:46
Richard M. Jones
Mike, I would like to know the thickness of the case body if you can, and the entire case with lids closed. I think Buster, Mary Ann and Ray have excellent points and this might be a case for one of the 16 1/2 or 17 sized movements. Rockford and Hampden produced domed movements that do not always work in thinner hunting cases so if you can measure the thickness of the body that might help. Do you have the measurements for the front and back of the movement section? I see a case screw mark above Co. in your picture and are there others? I do not know much about Elgin 17s movements but years ago I had a Leader in a silveroid case that said Leader. It was not the usual mark I have seen on Leader cases so it may have been made for the 17 s Elgins. Your case appears to be from the 1900 period from what I can see. Mr Dueber had no problem with furnishing cases to anyone who wanted them so you have an interesting puzzle.


Deacon
September 22, 2010, 11:42
Mike Hodge
Thanks Deacon, The case thickness with covers closed is .662 in. Thickness with covers open is .277 in. Openings, front (dial side) maximum 1.703 in. Back maximum 1.628 in. Minimum inside diameter 1.671 in. I hope this is clear as mud! I could also send the case so more experienced eyes could see it firsthand.
September 22, 2010, 16:32
Jerry King
I agree Deacon....looks as though there is case marks directly opposite the one above the Co. mark....

Jerry