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Vintage Victorian key wind pocket watch - $575 (Midland)
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Key Features Observed:
* Winding Mechanism: This is a key-wind watch, evidenced by the separate winding key attached to the chain.
* Albertina Chain: The elaborate silver-tone chain includes a T-bar, a decorative slider (the spherical piece), and a tassel fob, which are characteristic of Victorian-style Albertina watch chains.
* Case Material: Based on similar examples, the case is likely made of sterling silver or "fine silver".
This is an antique Swiss key-wind pocket watch, likely dating from the late 19th century (approx. 1880–1900).
The markings inside the case reveal several details about its origin:
Case Markings
* 0.935: This is a purity hallmark for Swiss sterling silver. It is a slightly higher grade than the standard British sterling (0.925) and was often used for watches intended for export to the UK.
* Three Bears: Although faint, the small stamps below the number are the Swiss "Three Bears" hallmarks. These were used between 1882 and 1934 to officially certify the silver's purity.
* 158314: This is the serial numberfor the watch case. It is generally used for the manufacturer's records rather than for dating the watch precisely.
Movement Details
* Bar Movement: The internal mechanism is a classic Swiss "bar" or "bridge" movement. It features a cylinder escapement, which was a common and reliable design for European watches of this era.
* Key-Wind/Set: The two holes in the inner "cuvette" (dust cover) and the square posts on the movement indicate it requires a watch key to wind the mainspring and set the hands. I have the original key.
* Winding Direction: Most antique Swiss movements wind clockwise.
The symbols shown, this is a Swiss-made case specifically hallmarked for export to Great Britain
Deciphering the Hallmarks
* 0.935 (in a rectangle): This indicates 93.5% pure silver. This standard was higher than the British "Sterling"
Key Factors Influencing Value
* The Albertina Chain: Decorative Victorian chains are highly collectible as jewelry. A complete sterling silver Albertina with its T-bar, slider, and tassel can often be worth as much as or more than the watch itself.
* Functionality: The watch "runs and keeps time" commands a significant premium. Even if it just "ticks" but isn't accurate, it is worth more than a "parts or repair" piece.
* Materials: Watch is confirmed as .935 silver (Swiss sterling), which is a desirable high-purity grade for collectors.
* The Key: The original winding key, the set is complete, which increases its appeal to collectors compared to "missing key" listings.