Description
A handsome antique American Waltham pocket watch housed in a solid silver Birmingham hallmarked case dating to 1903. The watch features a clean white enamel dial with Roman numerals, blued subsidiary seconds hand, rose gold-coloured hands, and a key-wound movement by the renowned American Waltham Watch Company.
The movement is a Model 1883, Grade Sterling, dating to 1904 and fitted with 7 jewels. The watch is currently running and comes complete with a winding key. The silver case was manufactured by Aaron Lufkin Dennison (ALD), one of the founding figures of American watchmaking and a key figure in the development of the Waltham Watch Company.
A substantial 18-size pocket watch with a pleasing appearance and good proportions, making it an attractive example for collectors of both American watches and silver pocket watches.
Maker History
The American Waltham Watch Company was one of the most important watch manufacturers in history, pioneering large-scale precision watch production in the United States. Founded in Massachusetts in 1850, Waltham watches earned a worldwide reputation for reliability, accuracy, and quality workmanship. Their watches were exported globally and remain highly collectable today.
Aaron Lufkin Dennison, whose hallmark appears on the case, was one of the founders of Waltham and is often referred to as the "Father of American Watchmaking" due to his role in developing interchangeable watch parts and modern manufacturing methods.
Key Details
• Maker: American Waltham Watch Company
• Model: 1883
• Grade: Sterling
• Serial Number: 13895086
• Date: Movement manufactured c.1904
• Case Hallmarks: Birmingham 1903
• Case Maker: Aaron Lufkin Dennison (ALD)
• Case Material: Sterling Silver
• Movement Type: Key Wound
• Jewels: 7 Jewels
• Dial: White enamel Roman numeral dial
• Hands: Rose gold-coloured hands with blued subsidiary seconds hand
• Includes original-style winding key
• Supplied in a Bowles Ltd. gift box
Dimensions
• Case Diameter: 53.5mm
• Thickness: 18.3mm
Condition
• In good working order
• Winds, sets and runs correctly
• Service history unknown – a service is recommended for long-term reliability
• Silver case remains in excellent condition with only light surface wear and age-related marks
• Spots of tarnish visible to the inside rear case lid
• Dial in good condition with no cracks observed
• Crystal has surface marks and wear consistent with age and use
Summary
A desirable and honest American Waltham pocket watch housed in a solid silver Birmingham hallmarked case by Aaron Lufkin Dennison. With its attractive enamel dial, key-wound movement, and strong historical connection to one of the founders of American watchmaking, it makes an appealing addition to any collection.
Postage & Shipping
As usual, this item will be packaged carefully and dispatched with tracking. International shipping is available upon request.
Important Notes About Antique & Vintage Watches & Movements
This item is being sold as a vintage or antique timepiece. We have described the condition as accurately as possible at the time of listing, however no guarantee can be given regarding accuracy, reliability, or future performance. The service history is unknown and a service may be required before regular use, or for long term reliability.
