Antique Pocket Watch

[Eckmill]

Paul, there is reference in Britten's "Old Clocks and Watches and Their Makers" that provides only and I quote:
"Bates, Thomas. Market Harboro', From 1783-about 1800 C.C. Watch." If the watch is genuine, then it was made during that short period by a "Brother" of the Clockmaker's Company. The mark of the Crown with 18 aside denotes that the case is of 18 carat gold. There should also be a Hall Mark (guild hall) mark on the case indicating the year made.

[Tom McIntyre]

If you can post a picture it would help to date your watch. 1790 vs 1850 is pretty distinctive.

I assume from your answer above that there are no additional symbols inside the case beside the crown and 18. A guild mark and a date letter would allow the case to be dated accurately.

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Tom McIntyre
Tommy the JOAT's Web (http://www.mcintyre.com/McIntyre)