Waltham 1870 model cases

[Greg Frauenhoff]

I recently picked up a Waltham 1870 model in its original "Fix & Conner" case. Ron Price has noted "Fix & Conner" private label mvts (and also marked cases) in the 1857 model. Just wondering if other such cases have been seen.

Thanks in advance,

Greg

[beta21]

Greg, checked my two 1870's, none with such a case

[Jerry Treiman]

Greg, do you suspect Fix & Conner were case makers? I have never heard of them. It seems more likely, if PL movements have also been seen, that they were a retailer who either had cases made for them or purchased cases and stamped them themselves. Are there any other distinctive marks or characteristics to the case?

[Greg Frauenhoff]

Jerry, et al.,

Here is a scan of the case and also rubbings of the various markings. The case is for a key wind and key set from back mvt (which is what was found with it, i. e. an 1870 model Waltham kw ks variety). The back has a catch spring (the lift spring is present but broken) and opens when the otherwise non-functional crown is pushed (note: the case was found without this pusher...I added the crown and fashioned a pushing "stem". However, clearly, given the style of the pendant, something resembling a crown or perhaps a flat topped pusher was originally present. I have seen other KW cases with non-functional and yet original crowns on them.)

The case has two professionally executed holes in the dust cover that are decorated as shown. The word "hands", however, does not appear around one of the holes. Also on the dust cover is engraved "Fix & Conner". The inside back cover is marked Fix & Conner above an eagle inside a square (this doesn't show well in the rubbing). There is also a serial number.

I recall, when looking at old census info, that there were many cases makers in the US during the 1870s. Whether Fix & Conner actually made the case or whether it was simply a private label I can't say for sure. However, I would lean towards them being the maker.

Greg

[beta21]

Greg, one of my cases look just the same, with non functional, fixed crown and no "hands" marking on the cuvette. Marked STERLING with a griffin, serial #1216. It's a very nice case with gold hinges.

[Greg Frauenhoff]

Thanks for the pic of your watch.

[beta21]

What is the serial number of your case, Grag?

[Greg Frauenhoff]

12015