Pocket watch crystal replacements.

[JimCo]

I have two old key wind Elgin pocket watches, both from the 1880s and both need crystals. I don't find much information as to the correct crystals to use in old watches such as these. The cases are the large silver (silveroid- coin silver?) cases and I've seen old watches similar to these with very thick crystals with a beveled edge, and I've seen some crystals not quite as thick, and some that are rounded at the edges. Does anybody have an idea as to what would be historically correct?
Thanks.
Jim

[JimCo]

I have two old key wind Elgin pocket watches, both from the 1880s and both need crystals. I don't find much information as to the correct crystals to use in old watches such as these. The cases are the large silver (silveroid- coin silver?) cases and I've seen old watches similar to these with very thick crystals with a beveled edge, and I've seen some crystals not quite as thick, and some that are rounded at the edges. Does anybody have an idea as to what would be historically correct?
Thanks.
Jim

[Kent]

Hi Jim;

Welcome to the NAWCC Pocket Watch Message Board!

These would be correct with thick crystals having beveled edges. An example can be seen in an 1890 Brooklyn Ad (http://photos7.flickr.com/10756891_df9c6699ac_o.jpg). Another example is shown in a 1888 Crescent Ad (http://photos23.flickr.com/37079738_7a468549f3_o.jpg). Even more to the point is a 1887 Fahys Silver Case (http://photos32.flickr.com/37082448_c66ddedf83_o.jpg).

Edited to add more links.