Hampden Private Labels

[BILL KAPP]

Hi guys and gals,

Recently it has come to my attention that Ball Hampden Private labels frequently have no serial numbers under the barrel bridge, I would like to know if anyone has noted this same occurrence on other private labels, particuarly those between 400-800k serial range. Normally all the plates are numbered, albeit roughly and not as smooth and well aligned as the top plate serial number. It occurs to me that as Hampden private labels occur so randomly and don't seem to be normaly distinct runs that Dueber might have taken watches from existing stock and retrofitted them with barrel bridges to meet these special orders.

YOur assistance or information on these would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Bill Kapp

 

[Dave Chaplain]

Bill,

For the 18S model 1 & 2 it's not uncommon for the main movement serial number to be found on the top side of the barrel bridge. I have one model 1 PL signed this way, sn 427,001, with the PL signature on the top plate.

For the 18S model 3, I have PL sn 408,923 with the serial number on the top plate. And again under the barrel bridge, with the PL signature on the top side of the barrel bridge.

Dave

 

[BILL KAPP]

IMHO,

Thanks for the info. I am referring to watches with no serial number on top or on the bottom of the barrel bridge. The PL signature on the top side of the bridge and the serial number under the bridge of your 408923 is what I would have expected until I examined my two Balls with the PL sig on top and no serial number underneath.

We know of at least 3 Ball Hampdens like this and I was wondering if this was common to other private labels or maybe just some kind of deal Ball had with Dueber to reduce unsold older inventory.

Fun to imagine the two of them haggling over it!

Happy hunting,

Bill Kaoo