Won the auction on Ebay for this 19 jewel Ball ORR Waltham, it is housed in a Keystone Ball Model Silveroid case # 489607, the movement is serial # B226050

The case back is marked Henry Birkenbusch, Perkin, Ill. 1

The movement.

This is the case back.

The following is some information I as able to find on Mr Birkenbusch

Henry Birkenbusch & Son

"The Reliable Jeweler Since 1867"

Two years after the civil war, on May 23, 1867, Mr. Henry Birkenbusch became an apprentice jeweler to John J. Woelfle, from whom he learned the jeweler's trade, then continued as an employee until 1887, when he purchased the business.

Later, Mr. Birkenbusch' s son, Louis, preparing to enter his father's business, attended Bradley Horological School in Peoria, and the Kandler School of Engraving in Chicago. He entered the business in 1898 and served as one of his father's jewelers and engravers

In 1929 the firm became Henry Birkenbusch & Son. Mr. Henry Birkenbusch continued to take an active interest in the business until his death at the age of 95, which gave him the distinction of being, by far, the oldest active businessman in Pekin. After the death of Henry Birkenbusch, his son Louis became the sole owner.

Changes in Court street during the past century have been numerous but for 82 years the address of Henry Birkenbusch & Son at 420 Court street has never changed.

Railroads have always demanded accurate time and require their engineers and other personnel to have their watches checked at regular monthly intervals by a reliable jeweler whom they appoint.

Henry Birkenbusch & Son has been the appointed jewelers for seven railroads in the Pekin area for many years. They have the distinct honor of being the oldest authorized watch inspectors for the entire Santa Fe Railroad system.

The large regulator, located in the west window of the store has served well to keep Pekin on time these past 82 years.

In addition to excellent watch inspection and repairs, you will find world famous precision tested watches. You will also find silver, china, and crystal ware to compliment every distinctive taste; diamonds and precious stones to satisfy your every desire. Several generations of Pekinites have made Henry Birkenbusch & Son their headquarters for reliable jewelry.

Thanks for looking Tom

Tom - I found this previous thread about Birkenbusch watches. You have a very nice looking watch there. And another loaner case to add to your collection!

Birkenbusch watches

Thanks Mary Ann. I think that makes 4 of them now, only 996 to go.

Tom

All which begs the question, are they STILL in business?

GREAT research as usual, Tom....as well as a very nice acquisition!

HIGH regard! Mark

Mark

From what I can tell they are no longer in business. While trying to determine that I also found this info;

1871 In March, Henry Birkenbusch bought the first lot in the new village and moved his store to it, building and all, from the corner one mile north. This lot was on the west side of Main Street, the building later occupied by the old Cromwell Store, where Gary Cromwell's Barber Shop is now. Birkenbusch was a most enterprising young fellow and consequently chalked up
several firsts for the new village, among them, he was the first to ship goods on the railroad from Fithian, and he was appointed the first village postmaster. Later in the year he took in J. P. Nichols as partner in the general store.

Tom

That's too bad. Thanks Tom!

Regard! Mark