I sent the following inquiry to Norfolk and Western Historical Soc., and received a polite but empty reply.

Dear Norfolk and Western Historical Society, Recently I acquired a very fine Railroad Grade Pocket Watch that is engraved with the Initials; "C B D" on the outside back cover and on the inside back cover this is engraved with the presentation; (see attached picture)

"Presented BY Employes (sic)
-of-
The Moberly Division
1.2.31

The Watch is a Premium Grade Illinois Watch Co. "Bunn Special" with;

21 jewel 60 hour motor barrel type movement
"Type III Nickel Damaskeening
Numbered Minute "Montgomery Dial"
Serial Number 5036222
In Model 206 White Gold Filled Factory Case

This is the watch of watches for Railroad Men of that period. It was probably started in production in 1927 and finished some time in 1930 after Illinois Watch Co. was purchased by Hamilton Watch Co. making it quit a unique transition piece.

Of course there are two very obvious things,
1. Someone in the Norfolk and Western Moberly Division must have retired of received a major accolade very early in 1931.
2. For that, this person with the initials; C. B. D. was given a gold watch valued at about 2 - 3 months pay of the "ordinary workingman" of the that period.

Anybody know how to find information about this outfit?

Well, at least here's the information of where the watch was located in 'the day'.

http://filebox.vt.edu/users/bharper/nwrwy/Moberly.html

Regards! Mark