waltham model 1857 vrs model 1877

[RON in PA]

Just picked-up a Wm. Ellery 11 jewel KW/KS model 1877 to keep my 15 jewel P.S. Bartlett model 1857 company. My question is what are the main mechanical differences that distinguish the two models? For instance was the side lever pallet changed to a straight lever?

[RON in PA]

Just picked-up a Wm. Ellery 11 jewel KW/KS model 1877 to keep my 15 jewel P.S. Bartlett model 1857 company. My question is what are the main mechanical differences that distinguish the two models? For instance was the side lever pallet changed to a straight lever?

[Wes]

The plate design is obviously different, especially the MS Barrel.
From what I recall, the lever (pallet fork) on the 57, 77, 79 and 83s were all what you'd call "side levers". The 92 had a straight lever.
Congrats on your new acquisition! Love those old key winds!

[RON in PA]

Thanks Wes!

After spending a year acquiring post-1900 railroads I've decided to go after the first or early KW/KS models from Waltham, Elgin and Illinois. There is something special about blued screw heads and guilded plates.