Max C. Eppenstein, Illinois Watch Case Co and...Rockford?

[John F]

I was searching through patent records and stumbled across something that surprised me. I think it's pretty generally known that Max Eppenstein ran a jewelery store in Chicago, and was later head of the Illinois Watch Case Co. in Elgin. However, a "M.C. Eppenstein" is also listed as VP of Rockford Watch Co., on two 1912 Rockford trademarks (at the same time that other Illinois watch Case trademarks were filed). I am assuming that Eppenstein apparently bought into Rockford shortly before its demise. Does anyone know if this is right?

[John F]

I was searching through patent records and stumbled across something that surprised me. I think it's pretty generally known that Max Eppenstein ran a jewelery store in Chicago, and was later head of the Illinois Watch Case Co. in Elgin. However, a "M.C. Eppenstein" is also listed as VP of Rockford Watch Co., on two 1912 Rockford trademarks (at the same time that other Illinois watch Case trademarks were filed). I am assuming that Eppenstein apparently bought into Rockford shortly before its demise. Does anyone know if this is right?

[Greg Frauenhoff]

John,

As I recall Eppenstein became involved with Rockford about 1898-1902 when he bought a controlling (?) interest in the Company and brought it out of receivership. It will take a little digging to get more details from my files.

[Greg Frauenhoff]

According to the History of Winnebago County, M. C. and F. A. Eppenstein and Jacobs Franks purchased the Rockford plant from the receiver Irvin French in 1901.

[John F]

Thanks Greg!

I guess Eppenstein had a fourth brother, "F.A.," in addition to Solomon and Louis.