Internet Horology Club 185
Hampden 23j question?

This topic can be found at:
https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/1086047761/m/9541057551

July 30, 2005, 19:07
Samie L. Smith
Hampden 23j question?
I have a question about the 23 jewel 18s Hampden movements..Here is a New Railway with serial# 3351443 were these made before or after the Special railway movements..


July 31, 2005, 11:43
Ed Ueberall
Samie,
Your New Railway is a very late example, and is in one of the last runs of the New Railway and indeed of all 18 size Hampden production. There were numerous runs of both New and Special movements made before your watch, and there was a run of Special Railways made after your serial number (3,357,001 - 3,357,500).
While both were made as 23 jewel movements, the Special Railway had a higher grade of finish than the New Railway, and sold for a higher price. Throughout most of Hampden's history, the grades were produced concurrently.
In 18 size, the New Railway was made in 23 and 17 jewel configurations, while the Special Railway had 23, 21 and 17 jewel versions.
When made in 16 size the model 4 and 5 New Railway was only available in 23 jewels, while the Special Railway was a 21 jewel movement. Earlier Model 1 and 2 movements, marked "SR" or "NR" in a flag were made in 23 and 17 jewels.


Ed Ueberall
IHC Member 34
The Escapement
July 31, 2005, 12:09
Samie L. Smith
Thanks Ed for the information i like the look of this one it looks to be a quailty movement..