I just received this nice running (very dirty) 18s 11 Jewel Illinois Watch with "DPL" engraved on the Barrel Plate. What/Who/Where/Why "DPL" Anybody?

"D. P. L." all I can think of is "Diplomat" ???

Don

The serial number 1228781 c.a. 1895 is from a 200 piece "run" of 11 Jewel movements just prior (in serial#) to some 7 Jewel Independent Watch Co. Movements of the same series.

I found lots of DPL references, but none that had the Icon like the one on your watch, except the one for the Detroit Public Library, and the history of it is listed at the URL below.
I have a picture, but can't get it into my latest picture program. I will try to post it, in the form it's in. May work, may not. It's png ?

http://www.detroit.lib.mi.us/about_dpl/DPL_History.htm

Thank you Sheila, I have been in touch with them and will reply any progress.

Now that is interesting, a watch with a Detroit Public Library insignia!

If you look at the insignia on Sheil's logo, it doesn't look the same as on David's movement. What say you?
Brian C.

Brian,
Ya know, I think your right! I took a closer look, and it may be that the letters that overlap are a little different. Real Close, but not quite the same.

I wish we could tell which letters are the ones on top or how they are actually represented, then I could check all the letters a little better.

I'm still looking, and I'll let you know if I find out anything else.

Brian, Good Eye!