I was looking for information on the Birmingham Special by the Illinois Watch Co. I was hoping someone might have some information about it.

Hi Richard

If you could post the serial number of the movement we might could tell you more, & better yet we love photos.

The Birmingham Special is considered a private label watch, made by contract probably for a jeweler.

In Meggers gold book, American Pocket Watches, he listed two Birmingham Specials, a 12 size made around 1928 it was a model 3 Illinois. He also lists a 16 size Illinois 21 jewel 3 adj. with a marked dial model 9.

Tom

Thank you. I am repairing at the moment and will get pictures and serial up tomorrow.

The Birmingham Special that I have is serial number 4310467. It is a 17 jewel double roller. Markings on the movement is Birmingham Special Illinois Watch Co. Springfield.

Your Birmingham Special is a 16s 17J open face pendent set model 7 grade 305 made in 1923, there were a total of 148,090 made of that grade. Not all Birmingham's.

Tom

Tom:

Thank you so much. I am so empressed with this site.

Richard

Welcome Richard, your Birmingham Special is really a nice looking watch....we hope to see others that you may have....

By the way, do you have any photos of the dial of this one...?

Regards,
Jerry

The case says Star Watch Case Company
sn 6811674