Happy Thanksgiving!

I have two Waltham Dennison, Howard & Davis pocket watches, serial numbers 1924 and 3931. According to the Shugart guide, they are estimated to have been made in 1855 and 1856, respectively. However, the ***** database shows that for serial number 1924 (SN range of 1801-2000) it was made in early 1858; serial number 3931 (SN range 2601-5000) is listed as being made in May 1857.

I know that the Shugart guide in some ways is a general reference in terms of the serial numbers and corresponding production dates, but was a block of serial numbers made out of sequence with these two watches? Actual production dates?

Thank you for your input,

Barry

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These very early production lots had non-sequential dating as they were defined more by availability of materials and other resources necessary to facilitate startup of their fabrication.

The Hand-written factory production records show:

1924 was started January-February 1858 with s/n's 1802-2000.

3931 was started March 1856 - May 1857 with s/n's 2601-5000

There are some specific notes about the Howard and Lewis markings on the last hundred of this series which are evident on your s/n3931.
Hope this helps.

Thanks, David!