No New Blood In Pocket Watch Collecting

[GD1]

I don't attend any of the big shows so can't comment on young people being there or not but in the last few years I have noticed a big decline of interest in pocket watches in my area except for a few older collector/dealers. As a collector/dealer myself who has had a display case of for sale watches in a local antiques booth I rent, I don't believe I have sold anything in months. {before anyone says anything they aren't overpriced} The owner of the mall whom I have questioned about it told me that the only people who even ask about pocket watches are typically in their 70's or 80's. On a grassroots level I have tried to get my kids and grandkids interested but they seem amused by Grandpa's watches but not interested. Most of my friends my age, {50} don't even wear watches anymore, they pull out their cellphones for the time. Anyway, just thinking out loud. Any comments appreciated.

[Dutto11]

Hi GD1,
I'm 48 years old and started collecting about 2 years ago. I would have started years ago but only discovered online auctions about then.
Living in Australia has made it very difficult to purchase good quality watches but now the internet has made the world so much closer.
I collect mainly Railroad grade watches and am always looking for that elusive bargain. My 25 year old son has mentioned an interest in my collection so the seed has been planted. I would like to know more about your display case of watches and what they are.

Gary

[Brad Gray]

I just got into pocket watches (old American ones) a couple of years back, and I'm not quite 50. I only wear a watch if it's one I've collected and fixed (a Wittnauer or Favre-Leubre or Hamilton). Most of the time I look at my cell. I kind of always figured it was an older guy's hobby, but I never had an 'inner child,' I had an 'inner coot!' I have noticed that much of what I buy comes from 'estate sales,' 'retired watchmaker's estate,' etc. Maybe the daunting cost of tools and materials it takes to fix them, and the steep learning curve keeps away the young folks and females, alas. And maybe it's the near impossibility of getting good cases. But these ARE antiques we're talking about. My fascination with a shining balance wheel and escapement ticking away again after a COA is still there, though...

[perby]

I don't attend any of the big shows so can't comment on young people being there or not but in the last few years I have noticed a big decline of interest in pocket watches in my area except for a few older collector/dealers. As a collector/dealer myself who has had a display case of for sale watches in a local antiques booth I rent, I don't believe I have sold anything in months. {before anyone says anything they aren't overpriced} The owner of the mall whom I have questioned about it told me that the only people who even ask about pocket watches are typically in their 70's or 80's. On a grassroots level I have tried to get my kids and grandkids interested but they seem amused by Grandpa's watches but not interested. Most of my friends my age, {50} don't even wear watches anymore, they pull out their cellphones for the time. Anyway, just thinking out loud. Any comments appreciated.

Well I to have within the last couple of years just started collecting and selling pocket watches, But me like the previous person, only discovered the internet, which has made it so much easier. I also check garage sales, estate sales and the likes, there are great buys to be had. I have found in my area of Canada, that sales are good for these watches, but it brings real pleasure to just hear them tick, and just looking at my collection, watching it grow,seeing as they are, true antiques.

[BILL KAPP]

Hi guys and gals,

I think the economy in general has something to do with it. The really exclusive stuff still seems to be going at a premium. The middle and lower end is definitely stagnating. Younger people dealing with mtgs and rising debt levels may be forced to reprioritize their consumption goals.

On the clock end, it seems even worse to me.

HOwever, the term worse is relative. I have been able to acquire some items that I never thought would be available at affordable prices.

Just like Real Estate, its a buyers market! And that can be a good thing. It might ultimately allow more to "afford" the hobby. Tough on the dealers, but cycles are a normal part of markets.

Sometimes we forget that we are the NAWC collectors. The dealers and investors are important as market forces but shouldn't be the tail that wags the dog.

For a lot of us, its about the fun and joy of collecting and researching. Let the politics and money be a secondary consideration.

Happy hunting,

Bill Kapp
spelling

[terofpa]

I agree interest in pocket watches is declining and I thought about the future too. I assume in a few years more collections are going to be up for sale than there will be collectors.

What we need to do is make wearing pocket watches cool somehow to the 20 and 30 somethings of today. Maybe hang one off a heavy gold chain as bling, or better yet, they could wear em as ear rings.:)

ter

[Submarine Chief]

Bill,
Starting collecting at age 66, I was fortunate to meet an 87 year-old master watchmaker who guided me and fixed up the mistakes I bought at a price I could afford. He is no longer able to fix my watches and the lack of qualified watchmakers make it hard to afford "fixer-uppers". I think as we loose the watchmakers (and their parts and tools), it'll be more and more expensive to collect. Every chance I get, I give a watch as a present to someone whom I believe will appreciate it and maybe stimulate interest.
Thanks for bringing this up.

Don Evans

[ggordon]

I guess I'm one of the "young pups" in this hobby. I started collecting 7 years ago at the age of 33 when I inherited my grandfather's watch. Since then I have been able to learn how to do most common repairs and have amassed quite a collection of tools and materials. I have even taken in some simple jobs for a local watchmaker friend of mine (cleaning, staffing, etc.) I am mostly self taught with a little help from a couple of local watchmaker's. I don't think I could have progressed this far without the internet and I still have a ways to go. Pocket watches in this area (Western Ky.) are hard to find but it is still fun looking.

This is an interesting thread.

[BILL KAPP]

Don,

I am hopeless with tools! This is why the land based chapter is so important to me. We share good fellowship and skills. I get to make the coffee at the meetings and almost always have something for show and tell. The watch and clock makers are very generous in sharing their expertise and time.

The internet is great for research and finding items. I know a lot of people dislike ebay but they must list about a thousand watches a day. I go to a lot of marts and regionals but probably buy more on line.

Price wise, the little marts are the best deals, but the selection on line is incredible.

Bottom line, I get a lot of pleasure out of finding, researching, sharing and handling my treasures.

I hope the NAWCC, its land based chapters and all the different internet groups thrive and keep the hobby alive for future generations.

It is and should be, first and foremost, about having fun and preserving as much horological information and artifacts as possible.

Happy hunting,

Bill

[cons14]

In a trend society all things run in cycles. As a 41 year old marketing professional, I also teach marketing at the University of Phoenix in Los Angeles. I wear my Ball Hamilton or Illinois Bunn Special wherever I go. I make it a point to "highlight" the pocket as a piece with historical value. Like the hoo-la-hoop a timeless classic the pocket watch may not be mainstream but has not reached the end of it's lifecycle. A new generation of collectors will surface.

[Fred Hansen]

I am 28 years old and was started into the hobby from the very early age of 9 to 10, which was when my father developed an interest in American pocketwatches and I learned by coming with him to the NAWCC and antique shows he would attend.

There are some NAWCC members that I know in my age range that are active collectors, but definitely a very small minority.

I think the way to catch some more attention among this age group is to highlight the mechanical, artistic, and historic aspects of pocketwatches to those with an interest in these areas. I believe the internet is an important tool for most individuals of my age, and I think the internet should be used by the NAWCC as a window for showing these aspects of the hobby to this group.

Fred

[Jon Hanson]

I, too, started as a pre teen. Chapter 149 has captured a few "youngters" for the club, inc young Fred. One problem is the lack of supply and therefore the "hunt!" Young folks do not have the time for "hunts" which are far less fruitful; even marts yield very little goods compared to years ago and that is why attendance is way down. Less goods, less interest.

[lak611]

I don't attend any of the big shows so can't comment on young people being there or not but in the last few years I have noticed a big decline of interest in pocket watches in my area except for a few older collector/dealers. As a collector/dealer myself who has had a display case of for sale watches in a local antiques booth I rent, I don't believe I have sold anything in months. {before anyone says anything they aren't overpriced} The owner of the mall whom I have questioned about it told me that the only people who even ask about pocket watches are typically in their 70's or 80's. On a grassroots level I have tried to get my kids and grandkids interested but they seem amused by Grandpa's watches but not interested. Most of my friends my age, {50} don't even wear watches anymore, they pull out their cellphones for the time. Anyway, just thinking out loud. Any comments appreciated.
I'm 38, and I have 20 railroad grade pocket watches, plus two on their way from the ebay sellers. I did not start collecting until last year. It all started when my dad passed away last year and I found a watch that belonged to my great-grandfather in my dad's stuff. I got it fixed and got hooked on collecting more. I used to wear a wristwatch. Now I never do, even though I own a nice Tag Heuer. I always carry a pocket watch. Right now I am carrying a Waltham 1892 Veritas 23j, 18s. I am waiting for an 18s, 17 jewel Elgin-Ball that should be arriving any day.I will check out the mart at the local NAWCC chapter meeting next month. Yes, I do own a cell phone (with internet, e-mail, and unlimited text messages), but I use my pocket watches to tell the time. Yes, they are as accurate as my cell phone for the time. I always check the time on my phone or computer regularly to verify! I am sure I am a rarity, being a woman under 40 who carries a large pocketwatch!

[Bryan Eyring]

I was doing coins, stamps, and other antiques in my pre-teens but it was not until the age of 12 or so that I really took an educated interest in watches. 15 years later it seems to me that the current lack of younger interest in timepieces is still attributable to a general lack of appreciation for anything vintage. In addition to this, the last couple generations prior to mine showed very little interest in antiquities as well. Lack of interest begot lack of interest...

I was very fortunate to befriend NAWCC member Harold McMahon early in life, otherwise my interest may have very well vanished (still can't get the folks to go to a mart)!

I think the only way to breath new life into the field of antiquities is to stress the areas of period and transformation (history), artisanship, and, to a certain extent, value. The only way to really do this is via the internet because, as Jon stated "Young folks do not have the time for "hunts." Nor are most of us allocated vac. time for Thursday or Friday marts and meetings. eBay and weekend auctions & fleamarkets are this generation's only saving grace for the occasional GOOD find.

I can certainly attest to this as a M-F, 40 hr, cubed stiff...:%

Regards,
Bryan

[justin time]

I'm 56 and started in pocket watches 1 year ago. My expertise is in automobile restoration which I still enjoy. I always had a fascination for pocket watches, so I took the plunge. Maybe it's a mechanical thing.

There are many similarity's in the two, but I have to say, the encouragement from all the good people here, and others that I have met, is the greatest similarity.

I have been an "answer giver" in the automobile world, and had forgotten the feeling of a newbee. Not knowing a thing, and not asking for fear of asking a dumb question. Humbling to say the least.

[Dbailey]

Yes...it looks like good news/bad news...the good news about less people collecting (and the heirs of collections selling them) is that more watches will be available for us collectors, which should also bring the prices down, but I collect for investment purposes as well as the fun of it all, so I wonder who will buy MY watches when I'm old and how much will they bring...
Dennis

[Tom Huber]

I started collecting as a 10 year old in 1955. I worked as the "boy Friday" for a couple of watchmakers in the coalmining town where I grew up. One of the old watchmakers was an alcoholic, who drank up the profits as they came in. Many times, at the end of the week, he did not have the dollar to pay me for the work I did, so, knowing my fascination with old pocket watches, he would pay me with a bag of old watches. My mother was furious when I would happily drag home a bag of watches. I was supposed to be paid for the work, not given junk.

At that time, I was in isolation as a young collector. Information was scarce as to what I had. Fortunately, the other watchmaker that I worked for was quite profitable. He was both the town optomotrist and a watchmaker. He fit eyeglasses on one side of the shop and sold and repaired watches on the other side. He is the one who would take the time to teach me about the different companies and what they made. He did a lot to teach me to spot a quality watch when I saw one.

I started learning to work on them 30 years ago. I had the help of several local watchmakers, but am all self taught.

I joined the NAWCC about 25 years ago, and joined my local chapter not long after that. this is when the info began.

Then with the advent of the internet, information has been easier to obtain.

From the watches that I was given in 1955-56. I kept what I liked, not because they were something specific. In later years, I learned that I must have had a good eye, because I kepted some darn good ones.

I might also add that in 1955, my mother gave me her father's RR watch along with his RR logbook. I published an article about this watch in the June 2004 NAWCC bulletin.

Tom

[lak611]

I started collecting as a 10 year old in 1955.

From the watches that I was given in 1955-56. I kept what I liked, not because they were something specific. In later years, I learned that I must have had a good eye, because I kepted some darn good ones.

TomWhat are some of the watches you collected as a kid and still have today?

[Tom Huber]

Hi Laura, I kept a number of Howards, but have since sold all of them. In the early 1990's, I needed money for my daughter's college tuition. I sold a dozen Howards and paid for a year of school for my kid at Ithaca College ($24,000).

I kept some early Elgins, Walthams, and Illinois. I also kept a number of of 16S RR watches, ie Illinois, Rockford, Elgin, Hampden and Waltham

There were also a couple of Rolex wristwatches in with the junk. I still have them.

I know there are others that I can't recall. They are all stored away at the bank.

Tom

[Dutto11]

Hi Laura, I kept a number of Howards, but have since sold all of them. In the early 1990's, I needed money for my daughter's college tuition. I sold a dozen Howards and paid for a year of school for my kid at Ithaca College ($24,000).

I kept some early Elgins, Walthams, and Illinois. I also kept a number of of 16S RR watches, ie Illinois, Rockford, Elgin, Hampden and Waltham

There were also a couple of Rolex wristwatches in with the junk. I still have them.

I know there are others that I can't recall. They are all stored away at the bank.

Tom

Hi Tom,
I would love to get a hold of a series 10 Howard to add to my collection.

[richiec]

I got started just a couple of years ago, I am 55, with my great, great, great, great grandfather's(Andrew Bragaw Brinckerhoff) M.I. Tobias watch sold by the Benedict Bros in NYC which had been in the family since 1847. I was fascinated by the key wind, key set feature, the moving parts inside, the tick sound and the feel of a good watch. I have personally had the watch for over 28 years since my father died. Being an older auto mechanic I am fascinated by anything mechanical that can actually be worked on, repaired and adjusted. My other great, great, great, great grandfather, Alfred F. Cross, was a partner in Cross and Beguelin Jewelers, Maiden Lane, NYC founded 1863, finally financially dissolved 1928 or so. I started collecting their Centennial watches due to the family tie then graduated to Waltham, Elgin, Illinois, etc. I now own nearly 100 working and non-working watches in various stages of repair or disrepair as the case may be. I took one of the Centennial watches to my cousin's house this past fall figuring I may give him one of the working models if he was interested, he showed little interest, he is my age, we showed it to his son who is 12 and he showed even less interest. I think nowadays that if the watch requires maintenance or repair, people today just throw it away. Young people seem interested in instant gratification, have no patience and do not value anything. I am the type of person who tries to repair everything, even plants my wife wants to chuck I have kept alive for the last 3 years, maybe I am a little compulsive and obsessive but I keep trying to keep showing the watches to others and trying to spark at least a conversation.

[IMHO]

I took an interest in pocketwatches after my Dad gave me my grand-fathers Illinois and my great-grandfathers Patek Philippe pocket watches just before my Dad passed away in 1994.

He also gave me my great-uncles circa 1936 Rolex Oyster "bubbleback" wristwatch with a custom made flat metal gold and engraved wriststrap. My great-uncle (Jimmy Korndorffer) was a professional golfer for a time in the 1930's but that was before there was any money in it for anyone but those at the very top! But the wristwatch bug has not set in for me yet.

There are several others here who have reported that they became interested in pocket watches after receiving an heirloom. Maybe that's a noteworthy connecton - fewer pocketwatch heirlooms going to descendants means fewer new collectors?

Dave

[lak611]

Hi Laura, I kept a number of Howards, but have since sold all of them. In the early 1990's, I needed money for my daughter's college tuition. I sold a dozen Howards and paid for a year of school for my kid at Ithaca College ($24,000).

I kept some early Elgins, Walthams, and Illinois. I also kept a number of of 16S RR watches, ie Illinois, Rockford, Elgin, Hampden and Waltham

There were also a couple of Rolex wristwatches in with the junk. I still have them.

I know there are others that I can't recall. They are all stored away at the bank.

Tom
Tom, I have a nice Tag Heuer wristwatch that I never wear anymore. Since I started collecting pocketwatches, I always carry a pocketwatch. I have not worn a wristwatch in over a year!

[lak611]

I took an interest in pocketwatches after my Dad gave me my grand-fathers Illinois and my great-grandfathers Patek Philippe pocket watches just before my Dad passed away in 1994.

He also gave me my great-uncles circa 1936 Rolex Oyster "bubbleback" wristwatch with a custom made flat metal gold and engraved wriststrap. My great-uncle (Jimmy Korndorffer) was a professional golfer for a time in the 1930's but that was before there was any money in it for anyone but those at the very top! But the wristwatch bug has not set in for me yet.

There are several others here who have reported that they became interested in pocket watches after receiving an heirloom. Maybe that's a noteworthy connecton - fewer pocketwatch heirlooms going to descendants means fewer new collectors?

DaveThe watch that got me started was my great-grandfather's Illinois Bunn Special. He was not a railroad man. He was a machinist. He probably got his watch as a graduation gift, since the railroad watches were better than the other watches back then. Since I inherited that watch, I have gotten hooked on collecting railroad watches. I now own 21, with 2 on their way from ebay sellers.

[lak611]

Hi Laura, I kept a number of Howards, but have since sold all of them. In the early 1990's, I needed money for my daughter's college tuition. I sold a dozen Howards and paid for a year of school for my kid at Ithaca College ($24,000).

I kept some early Elgins, Walthams, and Illinois. I also kept a number of of 16S RR watches, ie Illinois, Rockford, Elgin, Hampden and Waltham

There were also a couple of Rolex wristwatches in with the junk. I still have them.

I know there are others that I can't recall. They are all stored away at the bank.

TomHi Tom. I am curious which Elgins, Walthams and Illinois watches you have. I own railroad grade watches from those companies. I own 2 Elgin Veritas 23 jewel, 2 Waltham model 1892 23 jewel 18s, a Waltham Vanguard w/wind indicator 23 jewel, and 3 Illinois (all Bunn Special 16s--2 21j model 9 and 1 23 jewel model 14.)

[Jerry Bryant]

I was very honored and fortunate to have inherited both of my Grandfather's pocket watches, both Elgins, but neither one "high-end". However, they both came to me many, many years ago (I'm now 58 years old), running great, and they still are today. I have already given my maternal grandfather's pocket watch to my 31 year old son, an engineer/designer of video games. Also, for his last birthday, I presented my eldest son with a 1947 Hamilton Railway Special 992B. My son carries and uses his 992B literally everywhere he goes. After a few weeks of owning his 992B, my son had much praise for his Hamilton railroad pocket watch, including his observation on its amazing accuracy and reliability!:)

My youngest son, who is 15 years old and a 10th grade high school student, is showing an interest in my pocket watch collection, asking occasional questions about the year of manufacture (except he says, "Dad, how old is this one?). I have a strong intuitiveness that my youngest son will follow along and eventually carry a pocket watch. At present, he prefers to not have any watch with him, and, yes - he uses his cell phone to check the time. I bought him a 12S OF GF Elgin pocket watch, just to see how he takes care of it. He actually winds it up occasionally, and speaks about it with pride of ownership. Then he asks, "When are you going to buy me a hunter case pocket watch?"

My point here is, I believe that sometimes we must nurture our young folks along, gradually introducing them to the extraordinary history and significance of pocket watches. I have explained to my sons that these miniature time machines, in their time period, were solely relied upon (except for less often exposure to mantle, grandfather and wall clocks) for timekeeping, by the likes of the Founders of our Nation, past US Presidents, lawmen, judges, bankers, doctors, lawyers, educators, Pony Express Riders, gunslingers, outlaws, and, cowboys (when they saved up enough money). The purchase of a pocket watch represented quite a tidy investment in their time.

Taking up time with your son, daughter, niece, nephew, etc., on the topic of American antique pocket watches, can enlist "new recruits" to help preserve the wonderful experience of owning, and, using them. It makes a lasting impression when you can get through to a young person that these antique pocket watches are every bit as useful today, as they were when manufactured over 100 years ago! How many attainable and usable 100+ year-old antiques can you say that about? Off hand, here's my list to compare with - antique cars (got money?), antique books (handle those frail pages with extreme care!) - okay, you get my point!

Jerry
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[StanJS]

If we're going to swap "old fart" stories, I'll kick in with mine...

I got started collecting pocket watches shortly out of college in the late 1970s because my ex-roommate, Bob, infected me. He caught the bug from Steph Helfant who worked at the Draper Lab. We'd get up at gawd-awful hours on Sunday mornings to run somewhere in NH to a flea market. We'd try to make a profit on some watches and hold others in our collection. Back then Bob and I noticed that we were the only youngsters at the NAWCC meetings. We made the same comment that is the subject of this thread. (A thought: who is buying all those watches on eBay? Just old guys?)

Then I got married which led to about a 25 year hiatus in collecting anything due to a state of mortgage induced poverty and a love of foreign travel. I passed on a minute repeater on our honeymoon on the Italian Rivieria - a terrible sign of the future. :)

In 2004, a buddy at work showed me his pocket watch and introduced me to Shugart. I got hooked all over again. I looked at eBay and didn't like the competition. I followed Yahoo Auctions and bought a fairly low grade perpetual calendar Swiss watch which, when it arrived, was in worse shape than expected. This stopped me for a year. I unloaded the Swiss watch on eBay then, in 2005, I found Hamilton serial number 191 on Yahoo. That really set the hook deeply.

We collect Japanese woodblock prints with a preference for Hiroshige landscapes, Chinese snuff bottles, other Asian art on a whim, and now pocket watches. This means that all our collections are on a starvation diet. Thus, I am a bottom feeder - looking for the sleepers where I can find them. I picked up about $2500 worth of Hiroshige prints for $543 at auction last year. I like about a 5 or 10 to 1 value to cost ratio. :cool:

We don't have any children and I do wonder what I will do with the pocket watches later on. We've picked a smaller local museum for the Japanese prints (the Boston MFA already has 40 or 50 thousand - though we do have a couple they don't). I am hoping my nephew has an interest in the watches. I'd at least like the Rockford 905 my grandfather gave me to remain in the family. We'll see...

Daily, I wear a black ceramic band Rado wristwatch that my wife gave me for my birthday ("My momma didn't raise no dumb children." (James Coburn in "Charade")) and a Hamilton 990. Given my age, the Hamilton is real handy. I can't see the Rado dial in reduced light and I can't see my cellphone time without reading glasses but I can read the Hamilton RR dial at 10 paces. :thumb:

Cheers,
Stan

[lak611]

I actually have a suggestion to get more people interested in collecting. Many people have mentioned ebay, and I am sure that those who buy things on ebay are all ages, probably not only older folks.

I just bought something on ebay (storage box for watches). The seller included a brochure to become a member of NAWCC and another brochure to become a member of AWCI. Now, I know that there are people who post here who sell on ebay. If you got the brochures and sent them in the box with the watch or accesories that you are sending to the buyer, maybe those buyers will join.

[Bryan Eyring]

Laura;

It is a fantastic idea but the issue is that of the required sponsorship - as much as I would love to help bring numbers up via this method, I would not sponsor someone whom I do not know. But then again perhaps the individual could find a sponsor through their local chapter? Still not a bad idea, just needs to be further developed.
Incidentally - what part of OH are you from - are you perchance a Ch. 28 or Ch. 10 member?

Regards,
Bryan

[lak611]

Laura;

It is a fantastic idea but the issue is that of the required sponsorship - as much as I would love to help bring numbers up via this method, I would not sponsor someone whom I do not know. But then again perhaps the individual could find a sponsor through their local chapter? Still not a bad idea, just needs to be further developed.
Incidentally - what part of OH are you from - are you perchance a Ch. 28 or Ch. 10 member?

Regards,
Bryan Bryan, I live in Cleveland. I just joined at the end of March. I will be attending my first local meeting next month. It will be the Lake Erie chapter (the group that meets in Strongsville, OH).

I don't see anything about sponsorship on either brochure I received.

The NAWCC brochure has a membership application form on the back of the brochure and also lists the website.

The AWCI brochure mentions the professional certifications and member benefits and gives address, phone number and website.

Neither brochure mentions sponsorship. If someone tries to join AWCI and does not meet the requirements, I am sure that the organization has ways to easily eliminate the problem.

[Bryan Eyring]

Hmmm.

Apparently NAWCC did away with the sponsorship requirement...

I too live in Cleveland so I shall look forward to meeting you in Strongsville next month! Lake Erie Ch. 28 is a great group and we are glad to have you as a member!

Regards,
Bryan

[lak611]

Hmmm.

Apparently NAWCC did away with the sponsorship requirement...

I too live in Cleveland so I shall look forward to meeting you in Strongsville next month! Lake Erie Ch. 28 is a great group and we are glad to have you as a member!

Regards,
BryanI look forward to meeting you at the meeting, as well.

[Tom McIntyre]

There were a number of members with commercial operations who disagreed with the need for sponsorship and included sponsored applications in the material they sent out. Eventually their position carried the day.

I think it has been about 15 years now since sponsorship was a requirement, but new members can still credit their sponsors when they join. Both new members and sponsors with some minimal number of new sponsorships get entered in the big watch drawing "Every Member Add a Member (http://nawcc.org/Member_Add_a_Member.pdf)"

[Ben Hsiung]

Says who? I'm new blood, only 28 years old and have been collecting watches for more than 10 years. Of course I'm just an anomaly as I totally agree with your statement that there is 'no new blood in pocket watch collecting', albeit the number of young watch aficionados that have entered the watch collecting arena in the past 10-15 years or so. I actively participate on Timezone.com and I can say a lot of the members are under 35 years old, but I also don't see them becoming pocket watch collectors any time soon. The fact of the matter is that it's easier to sell new watches than old watches to begin with, let alone the bygone pocket watches. I try to post regularly on Timezone.com to stir up interest for pocket watches, which I think has a little bit of effect. I think to really get people interested in these old treasures is to really educate the well-financed crowd today that are interested in watches about pocket watches. Most of them just feels too separated spiritually from pocket watches to even look at them, and they will also argue that they can't use pocket watch in everyday setting. So some compromise and intermingling are definitely needed to draw these fellas into pocket watch collecting, then the craft will survive.

[lak611]

Says who? I'm new blood, only 28 years old and have been collecting watches for more than 10 years. Of course I'm just an anomaly as I totally agree with your statement that there is 'no new blood in pocket watch collecting', albeit the number of young watch aficionados that have entered the watch collecting arena in the past 10-15 years or so. I actively participate on Timezone.com and I can say a lot of the members are under 35 years old, but I also don't see them becoming pocket watch collectors any time soon. The fact of the matter is that it's easier to sell new watches than old watches to begin with, let alone the bygone pocket watches. I try to post regularly on Timezone.com to stir up interest for pocket watches, which I think has a little bit of effect. I think to really get people interested in these old treasures is to really educate the well-financed crowd today that are interested in watches about pocket watches. Most of them just feels too separated spiritually from pocket watches to even look at them, and they will also argue that they can't use pocket watch in everyday setting. So some compromise and intermingling are definitely needed to draw these fellas into pocket watch collecting, then the craft will survive. I think an interest in history in general led to my interest in watches. I have been a member of a local historical society for 4 years. When I inherited my great-grandfather's pocket watch, it just led to a further interest. I already had a modern pocket watch (Victorinox quartz watch). When I discovered the antique and vintage watches, I was hooked. I also happen to love everything related to railroads. There are train tracks not far from where I live, and I love the sound of the train whistles. A man who used to work with my dad volunteered for a local historic railroad that had steam locomotives. I am a member of an internet discussion forum dedicated to steam locomotives. If younger people are interested in history, they will probably learn to appreciate pocket watches.

[andremajic]

I was reading the above posts, which prompted me to register and join your community. I am 30 years old, and have always been fascinated with mechanical things.

I'd say that the only thing keeping me from collecting is my lack of knowledge on what's a good/bad choice for collecting, etc. I have some basic tools, such as a couple loupes, screwdrivers, hand puller, and tweezers, but no specialized stuff yet. (I am absolutely paranoid about ruining something until I know exactly what to do.)

I'm sure that the biggest hindrance for newcomers would be the money involved, second would be the lack of mentors to apprentice under, and being afraid of being taken advantage of by some unscrupulous dealer/ebay/etc. Time is always something that everyone is short on. I have a family to support, job responsibilities, people who depend on me, and then I have maybe 3 hours of personal time after all that is done.

Lack of interest in our history would be a major reason why younger people aren't interested. The lack of interest in government and politics is also related to the current decline in the quality of appointed officials and laws being passed at the present time in our house and senate. Basically, to reiterate what a previous poster said, this is the "instant gratification generation".

Also, most of the watchmakers are retiring or dying off, and there's no one to carry the torch. I remember in the 1990s that just about every couple miles, you could find a watchmaker who could do full service on your watch. You could even find some renting a space in a drugstore or mall.

I was in my teens when I asked a watchmaker if I could apprentice under him to learn the trade. (No monentary compensation, just knowledge would be my pay.) He told me that because of the state law, he couldn't have me working with him because he would be forced to pay me something as per state regulations. Besides, he was about to retire. (This was CA.)

The only source for knowledge so far has been the internet, and some correspondence courses. If there is anyone in my area that might be interested in mentoring me, I'd love to learn what they can pass on to me. I learn better with the "monkey see, monkey do" approach.

Andy.

[Fred Hansen]

Hi Andy -

Welcome to the NAWCC message board!

I think you are very right that finding a good mentor is a huge boost in the earlier stages of collecting.

From what you've seen so far, what areas of pocketwatches are catching your interest the most right now (i.e. a certain maker, time period, watch type, etc.)?

I know some friendly and knowledgable collectors from your area, and if you choose to become an NAWCC member and attend some of their local NAWCC marts you should be able to meet and get to know some of these folks. This is probably the very best way to get a good start into the hobby.

Also if you are gaining interest in the hobby my best advice at this early stage is ... be in more of a hurry to learn than to buy. Move forward at whatever pace you get the most enjoyment from, but try to get a good sense of what is out there in this hobby. There is a tremendous amount of good information in the archives of this message board, and it also has a terrific set of active posters that will respond to new topics that come up here. As you start to identify your interests, I'd definitely recommend finding out what the best books/resources on these specific topics are and getting ahold of them. Also don't underestimate the potential of eBay as a resource for watching and learning about items as they pass through a competitive auction environment, but keep in mind that many items there are badly misdescribed and information that you read from sellers there will often be incorrect. Buying watches at online auction such as this can be a harsh environment in the early stages of collecting and I've watched many newer collectors bury themselves in poor decisions ... but if you resist the impulse to bid and buy before you are ready than like I said following items of interest can be a nice learning tool.

Hope this has helped some, as I posted earlier in this thread I am in my upper 20's and have been at this hobby from a very young age and my interest has only increased with the years. Unfortunately I don't live near your area but if there is ever anything watch or collecting related that I can help you with through email please feel free and contact me through a private message on this board and I will be glad to get back to you.

Fred

[terry hall]

Here is another extended Welcome Andy....

North Carolina has 3 NAWCC chapters... but not 'very close' to you.

There is the newest chapter, 191, meeting around new bern nc, and chapter 17 meets in Salisbury NC, chapter 126 is in the western part of the state.

http://www.nawcc.org/headquarters/chapters/chap-US.htm

Getting involved with these groups is also another way of learning.... there are folks out there that can and will 'teach'... just by talking and interacting and with 'show-n-tells'

Chapter 149 also has a Mentor Program... (fred and I are both listed in this program)...

Involvement in these boards is also a method of learning... welcome and enjoy the ride.

[Ray Fanchamps]

I have a fully equipped workshop and welcome NAWCC members to drop by with their problem clocks. Watches too if they don't mind me dropping them occasionally.:o
FSW have been held here plus other "unofficial workshops". Also the Chapter 47 library is here for anyone to browse.
I had a great mentor in Cleveland Ohio who did the same thing. This is just a little "giving back".
The "Strongsville" chapter was my introduction to the NAWCC too.
I was an "anomaly"back then but I have been a member so long that I am almost old enough to fit right in :Party:
Contact me through the MB if you need more info.

[vandd]

Just ask John P. (he knows me in person) i am almost 22 and have been collecting for about 3 years ish area. I have also been offered apprentiship for watch making and repair. I have a dream of a watch i want to make. if things go right it will be the first of its kind. but at the moment i was going to school for sales management but at the moment am taking a semester off. i as of yet do not know where i want to go in life and at the moment i have a gf who depends on me for transprotation. with this if i take the apprentiship i would have to move every thing out of my house inwitch i rent from my dad. so inwitch means i would have to find a place for bed, grandfather clock, piano, organ..... exc.... but as i was stating i collect older watches and repeaters.

[Glyn Meredith]

Andy,

Please come over to Global Horology Message Board sometime and check out our on-line horological community. Many of the members here are also members of GH and I'm sure you will find a very friendly and helpful atmosphere.

Among our many forums we have public trading forums, pocket watch forums, an appraisal desk, clock forums, repair forums, an NAWCC area (where you will find Chapter 192) ... even a personal blog area.

Glyn

[andremajic]

Thanks for the welcome guys. I have also registered at the global forum. Thanks for the info.

In response to some of the earlier questions. My interests in watches started when I got an Omega Seamaster at an estate sale for 5.00 and found out what it was really worth. It needed periodic lubrication and maintenance, which got me interested in learning how to service it. (I still haven't found out how.)

I like older pocketwatches as well, with the railroad watches such as Illinios Co. made and older omega watches.

I find great satisfaction in taking something that hasn't worked in a long time and making it work again. That's probably why I like gunsmithing and watchmaking. (Although I haven't even started learning about watches, and disassembly is limited to removal of the movement from the case.)

I like to tinker, and I don't mind owning something that is used. Most people want something that is brand new and never used, while I find a value in the older things that were "built to last". I have a logan lathe built in 1948, which is still running strong, and cuts accurately.

Andy.

[M. Cross]

I've been carrying and collecting pocket watches for decades....but have to say that it's hard for an antique store owner to determine WHY no one is buying watches, and concluding interest has slowed down.

In all the stores I go too, and I do so on a regular basis, most every booth owner I come across either goes strickly by the Shugart book price (high book listing, no less), or 'guesses' what they have, and mark their watches accordingly.

There's no way in the world I'm going to shell out $300+ for a 7j Elgin in a base metal case just because they've marked it 'railroad watch'....let alone $800+ for a 17j Hamilton 974 (non-running condition and extreme hairlined dial, no less) in a worn out gold filled case JUST because it's a 'Hamilton'! I saw those examples in Franklin, TN just last week!:o

It's becoming the norm in Tennessee and Kentucky where I go 'prowling' for new additions to my collection, so it's not necessairly a fact that interest is dying. It's a fact that no one is willing to pay for something that ain't necessarily so.

That's just my experience of late.

Regards! Mark

[Veritas]

Hi Mark, it,s pretty much like that here.Dealers sell way too high, figure old equals big bucks.:confused:

[Kent]

Hi Mark, it,s pretty much like that here.Dealers sell way too high, figure old equals big bucks.:confused:


Do the items actually sell at those high prices, or do they just sit on the dealers shelf? It makes a difference!

[ckeithjohnson]

Do the items actually sell at those high prices, or do they just sit on the dealers shelf? It makes a difference!

Kent, I learned a little about the Antique Dealers philosophy in a shop at Lake Arrowhead Ca. The store had a nice looking 18s,7j Elgin hunter tagged at $450. I told the lady proprietor that I may be interested at something in the range of $150 and she laughed at me. She explained that she never buys a watch,they just happen when she buys an Estate.
She went on to explain that her price is based on what the average wife will put on her credit card in buying the watch that "Ralph" said he always wanted. She sells them all without a problem........Keith

[Kent]

...
The store had a nice looking 18s,7j Elgin hunter tagged at $450. ... her price is based on what the average wife will put on her credit card in buying the watch that "Ralph" said he always wanted. She sells them all without a problem........Keith

Thus, the value for the watch in that market is at least $450. So this contradicts what is being said above, the intrest is dying because too much is being charged for the watches.

I had a similar experience in an antique ship on Cape Cod a few years ago. An Elgin BWR No. 240 in a nickel case was priced at about $950. After a short conversation with the owner (within which I didn't even try to bargain for the watch) he told me that he sells watches like that every week for that price less the customary 10% when a serious buyer asks what he has to have for it. I guess that $150 went for the watch and $700 went for the rent and his profit. I'm not sure of the proportion, but I'll bet that the rent was a large part of the $700 - the main drag in Hyannis is a high rent district.

[M. Cross]

True, Kent. That's what makes it SO difficult to wander around some antique stores and look at watches....the knowing of the actual collector price, and seeing what they're trying to get for them. There's just no wiggle room what so ever.:(

Regards! Mark

[texasgunrunner]

Hey, guys, don't get too discouraged that there isn't "new blood" in pocket watch collecting. I'm only 33, and although I've been interested in pocket watches for a while, I just started collecting shortly after Christmas. I recently started a new job, and I can't wear a wristwatch to work, so I decided I'd find a decent pocket watch to wear instead. I looked online, and found I'd rather have a mechanical watch than a cheap quartz movement. I took some Christmas money and went to local antique shops, and was fortunate enough to find a Waltham 625 movement in an open face case. After buying it, I did further research and discovered it was made in 1913. It looks like it could have come out of the factory last week, and it runs spectacularly. Needless to say, I'm hooked!

[M. Cross]

GOOD find!!

Don't get me wrong, there are still hidden gems out there. I came across (and purchased) a rough looking Elgin BWR model 478 (built in 1927) in Ohio a couple Christmas's ago that I got for a great price. It even had a nice Simmons vest chain.

Once cleaned, it's one of my best time keepers and 'lookers' in my watch box. It even came with it's original Elgin Montgomery dial, and no cracks or hairlines. The watch looks brand new once all the grim was removed and movement and case brought back to snuff.

They're out there....but it's getting harder to find them at a price that's in line with their actual value these days.

Keep looking, Tex!

Regards! Mark

[andremajic]

http://mb.nawcc.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=29110&stc=1&d=1235831733

Here's one of my latest acquisitions, a Henry Moser 23 jewel pocketwatch. Adjusts 5 positions. I really like that micrometer adjustment for the regulator. It came in an illinois watch co case, so I'm thinking that it was switched out of the original russian one. Any more info on this watch would be helpful. I can't seem to find anyone else that has a 23 jewel moser. It keeps perfect time, although I'm not going to wind it up anymore until I get a full clean and service for it.

The serial number on the movement is 1724538.
The engravings look like they are embossed in gold. You just don't see many wristwatches that have internals like this. That's what makes me like pocket watches.

Andy.

[Peepaw]

Well I'm not exactly young blood, I'm 57, I am fresh blood in the hobby.
I don't own it but I've often thought of my grand dads pocket watch. I remember watching him wind it as if he was haddling a precious jem.
About a month ago I broke my cheap wrist watch and decided that I would get me a pocket watch to carry on road with me (truck driver).
Well here I am a month later and I own three nice Hamiltons, none of which are high grades, just nice working examples of the working mans watches.
I've been reading a lot on here and other places, so much to learn. I have also brought two of my friends into the hobby just by talking it up. They are a bit younger than me but still no spring chickens. One of my friends has a dad that was a life long collector but had to sell his rather large collection a few years ago when his wife got cancer.
The crazy thing about all this is I'm actively looking at a few more watches to buy and I still don't have anything to carry on the road.
I guess I'll just keep looking at my cell phone.:)

[Kent]

Hi Peepaw:

Welcome to the NAWCC American Pocket Watch Message Board and wlecome to pocket watch collecting!

In case you haven't seen it yet, here are a few things to consider:

Watches that are carried daily need to be cleaned and oiled at regular intervals. Railroad time service rules varied, but requirements for cleaning on a basis of once every year and a half were typical for railroaders at the turn of the century. By the mid-1920’s this was extended to two year intervals.

The “Sears, Roebuck and Co., Inc. Catalogue No. 104,” Chicago, IL, 1897, reprinted by Chelsea House, Philadelphia, PA, 1968 had this to say on page 371:

“We Guarantee for Five Years All the movements sold by us. This does not refer to the life of the movement, but that we will for five years from date of purchase, correct free of charge any fault which may occur from defective material or workmanship. Any well made movement will run a lifetime if properly cared for.
“Remember That your watch should not run longer than one and one-half years without having the old oil cleaned off and fresh oil supplied. This must be done at the expense of the purchaser.
“The balance wheel of all modern watches makes 18,000 beats or revolutions per hour; 432,000 per day, or 157,788,000 per year. An engine or sewing machine will be oiled several times per day, but we have known people to carry a watch for ten years without having it cleaned or fresh oil applied.
“Usually, a movement thus treated is of no value, being entirely worn out. Take good care of your watch if you wish it to perform its duty properly, for it is a very delicate machine. Our charge for cleaning and oiling is 75 cents. The regular retail price is $1.50.”

Watch cleaning and oiling costs a bit more today than it did a hundred years ago. Check out What You Need To Know About Watch Repair (http://elginwatches.org/help/watch_repair.html) at Wayne Schlitt's Elgin Website.

Also, check out Frequently Asked Questions (http://www.pocketwatchsite.com/faq.html) on the Pocket Watch Site.

Also, Ed Ueberall, of The Escapement (https://home.comcast.net/~k_singer/Escapement.htm) has put together some notes on the Use And Care of Your Vintage Watch (http://k_singer.home.comcast.net/use_and_care_of_your_vintage_wat.htm) that may be helpful.

Service Frequency
If the watch is run continually, a cleaning and oiling is needed every 3-5 years. If you're only going to wear your watch occasionally, this ought to be done once at the onset and about every ten years thereafter. If you're not going to carry it (or run it), don't bother getting it serviced. Many of the watches in my collection (that aren't run) haven't been cleaned and oiled in 20 or 30 years or more.

Beginning Collecting
My advice to people who get interested in collecting pocket watches is to not buy anything for the first six months or a year.

a) Watch what is selling on the internet.
- Start to form an opinion of what actually appeals to you.
- Try to figure out why the prices vary wildly for different examples of the same watch.
- What are the subtle differences?

b) Read what is being discussed on the message boards.
- What are people being told about examples of watches that are being discussed?
- Are there specific references backing up what people are saying?

c) Once you think you know what you want (and you may end up with something different than that with which you started), research the specific watches, or type of watches.
- See what your chosen watches are supposed to look like.
- Look for examples in the best condition you can possibly afford.
- Are there websites showing watch company literature, for watches of your interest, which can be accessed? Go to them.
- Are books available on your chosen watches? Get and read the books.

d) Join The National Association of Watch And Clock Collectors (NAWCC) (http://www.nawcc.org/headquarters/members/Meminfo.htm), and make use of its resources.
- Check the Online Bulletin Index (http://www.nawcc.us/BulletinIndex/bulsrch.htm) for articles (back issues are available on loan by mail to members from the NAWCC Lending Library (http://www.nawcc.org/headquarters/members/mclibrary.htm).
- There is a wealth of information about watches and watch cases in a trade publication entitled The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review. Most of this is in the form of ads which show which products were available at what times. Microfilm copies of The Jewelers' Circular and Horological Review are available on loan by mail to members from the NAWCC Lending Library (http://www.nawcc.org/headquarters/members/mclibrary.htm). These cover the years 1881 - 1910 (or later). A microfilm reel contains year's worth of monthly issues, up to 1891 when the magazine changed to The Jewelers' Circular - Weekly and Horological Review. Thereafter, there are 26 weekly issues on a reel. Microfilm readers and reader-printers are usually available in most public libraries. College libraries tend to have better facilities and equipment.
- Talk to more experienced people at the local chapter meetings.

e) Remember,
if you're going to be spending hundreds (or thousands) of dollars, you should take the time to understand what the money is being spent on. You work hard for your money, spend it wisely!

Oh, if you're going to buy a watch to carry every day, consider getting one in a nickel case. These are durable and stand up very well to wear. It would be a shame to get a watch in a nice, gold-filled case and then wear it through to the brass in daily use.

Good luck,

[Peepaw]

Thanks a lot for the welcome Kent. Not sure where in Ga you live but I'm in Warner Robins.
I understand about the nickel case, as I said I haven't fixed my no watch to carry deal yet. I bid on a nickel case 60hr Bunn Special last night but it got a bit high for no more info that was given, plus I'm not sure I want to subject a 60hr B.S. to the rough ride of a big truck.
Joined the NAWCC the other day also but haven't yet received my membership stuff yet. Figured it would be worth the money for sure.
I'm mostly going to be collecting what I consider to be the working man's models, although I have in the last couple of days started to have a big interest in the Bunn and the Bunn Special by Illinois, I'm also liking the Waltham Riverside. Of course I'll probably need a B W Raymond or three.
So many nice watches to choose from.
Of course I also must have some of the rr grade Hamiltons.
Just in the last week I have been on a big learning spree. Lots of fun going from who is this B W Raymond guy to actually knowing who he and Bunn were.
Having a blast so far and learning a lot of history as I go.

Scott

[lak611]

Thanks a lot for the welcome Kent. Not sure where in Ga you live but I'm in Warner Robins.
I understand about the nickel case, as I said I haven't fixed my no watch to carry deal yet. I bid on a nickel case 60hr Bunn Special last night but it got a bit high for no more info that was given, plus I'm not sure I want to subject a 60hr B.S. to the rough ride of a big truck.
Joined the NAWCC the other day also but haven't yet received my membership stuff yet. Figured it would be worth the money for sure.
I'm mostly going to be collecting what I consider to be the working man's models, although I have in the last couple of days started to have a big interest in the Bunn and the Bunn Special by Illinois, I'm also liking the Waltham Riverside. Of course I'll probably need a B W Raymond or three.
So many nice watches to choose from.
Of course I also must have some of the rr grade Hamiltons.
Just in the last week I have been on a big learning spree. Lots of fun going from who is this B W Raymond guy to actually knowing who he and Bunn were.
Having a blast so far and learning a lot of history as I go.

ScottHi and welcome to the NAWCC. You mentioned that you are interested in railroad standard watches (Bunn Special, B W Raymond, Hamilton). If you do get a railroad standard watch, you probably won't have to worry about carrying it in your truck. The conditions in the cab of a steam locomotive were considerably harsher than those in the cab of a truck. The engineer and fireman both carried watches.

[Kent]

Thanks a lot for the welcome Kent. Not sure where in Ga you live but I'm in Warner Robins.
...

I'm a bit east of you, in the Savannah area. There are a couple of us railraod standard watch nuts out here.

Why don't you join us near Stone Mountain on Sunday morning, April 5 at the NAWCC Chapter 24 Meeting (http://webpages.charter.net/grunwell/NAWCC/NAWCC.htm). I guarantee that you won't have any trouble finding us at the meeting and that you'll be welcomed by just about everybody there. We'll have a small display cabinet set up with a number of railroad standard watches in it.


...
I'm mostly going to be collecting what I consider to be the working man's models, although I have in the last couple of days started to have a big interest in the Bunn and the Bunn Special by Illinois, I'm also liking the Waltham Riverside. Of course I'll probably need a B W Raymond or three.
So many nice watches to choose from.
...
Scott

Well, most railroad standad watches were working men's watches, albeit not inexpensive ones. Just in case you haven't learned it yet:

Many people have come to call any large old pocket watch, especially one with an engraving of a locomotive on the back of the case, a railroad watch. This usage is frequently is incorrect. The term "Railroad Watch" was used by the watch and jewelry trade (and is now used by collectors) to refer those high grade watches that met the requirements of railroad time service rules and standards. The railroad industry, and the railroaders themselves, referred to the watches as "Standard Watches," literally, those watches that met the railroads' time service standards.

Although the person who originally owned a watch may have worked for a railroad, it is not necessarily what could properly be called a "Railroad Watch." The use of a standard watch was only required of a portion of railroad employes (correct spelling, used in many older railroad documents), usually those directly involved in running the trains, or controlling, or affecting, the operation of trains. Other employes carried whatever watches they liked. Typical lists of those required to carry a standard watch appear in an 1892 report of Time Inspection on the Illinois Central Railroad (http://photos13.flickr.com/18116144_9bc4fcef3f_b.jpg) and as Standard Time Rule No. 2 in a 1901 Edition of Canadian Pacific Railway General, Train, and Interlocking Rules (http://photos9.flickr.com/13887167_289ea8006f_o.jpg). A later list of Burlington Route employes required to carry a standard watch is shown in these 1949 CB&Q Rules (http://static.flickr.com/45/174562668_28998da6c1_o.jpg). The Union Pacific RR website has concise explanations of Past and Present Railroad Job Descriptions (http://www.uprr.com/aboutup/history/jobs.shtml)

To learn more about railroad time service, time inspection and railroad standard watches, see ”Just What Is A Railroad Watch?” On the Pocket Horology, NAWCC Chapter 174 Website (http://www.pockethorology.org/) (scroll down to the title of the article). However, please keep in mind that information that became available since the above was written indicates that hunting-case watches were not specifically prohibited from railroad time service, at least, not as early as 1906-1908.

Hope to meet you in early April,

[Peepaw]

Kent I want to thank you for another most excellant reply, I'm speechless.
You've given me a lot of study material to go along with what I had found on my own.
I just got outbid an hour or so ago on a 1903 or so Bunn Special. I thought I had a pretty good proxy bid but alas I was sadly mistaken. Mistaken by over $100.:eek: So goes life, it was fun trying and I learned a bit from it.
I just might try to make the meeting in April as I should be a full fledged member by then. I'm usually home on weekends anyway.


Laura thanks for your reply also, I'm sure you are correct. Trucks these days ride fairly nice.

Scott

[Kent]

...
I just might try to make the meeting in April as I should be a full fledged member by then.
...
Scott

It doesn't matter if you've got your membership card by then, guests are just as welcome as new members!

[Peepaw]

It doesn't matter if you've got your membership card by then, guests are just as welcome as new members!


I will plan on being there.

Scott

[kenham]

Here could be one of the problems. I've been reading the posts here for several months and decided last month to pony up the $65 for membership. Which I did on Feb 25th. I got an e-mailed receipt, that's all. When I didn't hear anything, or receive anything by March 1st, I sent an e-mail asking if I would be receiving anything, a card, welcome to to the nawcc, something. No response. It's the 5th and I still haven't heard or received anything. I just sent another e-mail asking if I'm using the wrong address (kosborne). Doesn't look like the welcome mat is out.
Ken

[Kent]

Hi Ken:

Welcome to the NAWCC!

I'm not really in a position to make excuses for staff that handles membership registrations, but you're describing events occurring in only 5 to 5-1/2 business days, during which, the northeast got smacked with some really bad weather and Columbia, PA (NAWCC Headquarters) was right there in the middle of it. In my own life, on Monday, 23-Feb, I sent an envelope with some wristwatch straps to my daughter in Philadelphia (75 miles east of Columbia). It didn't arrive until Tuesday, 3-Mar. Thus, it took the Postal Service 8 days to get a letter from coastal Georgia to Philadelphia!

So, please be a little understanding and be patient for the additional week or two that it normally takes organizations to process new membership registrations. If you're near enough to Atlanta, you'll certainly be welcomed at the Chapter 24 meeting on 5-Apr, especially if you've got a less-than-common, 18-size Elgin watch to show!

Meanwhile, you're welcome here and you can get near-immediate responses to your questions, statements, comments, pictures or whatever else you'd like to post. What are your interests?

[kenham]

Thanks Kent, I'll be patient. I live in southwestern Washington. Thanks for the invite. I think there is an event in Kent Washington in April also. I'm new at the pocket watch collecting, about a year and have about 25 watchs, mostly Waltham, several Hamilton and several 18s Elgin.
Which brings a search problem I'm having. I recently acquired an 18s Elgin KW in a coin silver case. It has no hands, the minute hand requires a square hole. Also I don't know how one would set the time since there is no second key hole for the setting and no lever set. (???)
thanks, glad to be here.
ken

[Ray Fanchamps]

Ken. Not sure why you have not heard anything or been responded to.
I have forwarded your post to Pam Lindenberger. Pam will contact you and get you any details you need.
Welcome to the NAWCC.

[Cary Hurt]

I recently acquired an 18s Elgin KW in a coin silver case. It has no hands, the minute hand requires a square hole. Also I don't know how one would set the time since there is no second key hole for the setting and no lever set. (???)
thanks, glad to be here.
ken

Ken,

To address your watch question, the square arbor for the minute hand is designed to accept the winding key. To set the hands on these watches, you open the bezel and turn the center post with the key. It's a bit tedious, and you need to be careful to avoid slipping and possibly damaging the dial or hands.

Hands are available from some of the used parts suppliers... Tom Mister at www.dashto.com (http://www.dashto.com) and Larry Foord at Uncle Larry's (http://www.execulink.com/%7Elfoord/parts.html) are two to check.

[Kent]

Ken:

To add to what Cary posted, watch materials are also available from:
Brian Cavanaugh, pwpartsetc@pwatch.com
Bryan Eyring, bdeyring@hotmail.com
Otto Frei (http://www.ofrei.com/)