Help me identify this pocket watch.

[clockman208]

Hello! I got this Spikins noted lever pocket watch from an antique fair a few weeks ago and I can’t seem to find anything about them online. If anyone could help me identify this watch it be much appreciated!

(It also says 15 Jewels on the movement)


Thanks

 

[Mikrolisk]

Frederick Spikins was a jeweller and gold/silver smith in London, England (at 29 Broadway, West Ealing, London) in the 1920/30ies.

 

[clockman208]

Ah I see thanks! Is the movement Swiss made though?

 

[gmorse]

Hi clockman208,

Is the movement Swiss made though?

Oh yes, it is, and so is the 'gunmetal', (actually steel), case. The dial and crystal are in a sorry state but the movement doesn't look too bad.

I'm sure I can remember as a child Spikins jewellers in Ealing, West London, and I'm not as old as all that!

Regards,

Graham

 

[clockman208]

Thanks! Do you know how old this could be?


It also seems to only work when it’s on its back and I suspect it’s because the balance wheel keeps getting stopped by the gear above although it could be something else.

 

[Dr. Jon]

It could date from the 1920's.

It is more likely to be stopping due to a bent or broken pivot on t4he balance wheel. The chips on the stringly suggest someotried to pry it off without knowing how to do this.

 

[SKennedy]

I recall seeing watches signed 'Spikins late Dent' or similar. If its the same Spikins, and its not a common name, it would suggest Mr Spikins may have apprenticed/trained/worked at Dents.

 

[clockman208]

Yeah it seems so. During my research it came up with a lot of pocket watches with “spikins dent” but there weren’t many like mine. I don’t know if it’s the same Spikins or if it’s completely different.

 

[Dr. Jon]

One thing Spikens probably learned from Dent was to import lower cost Swiss watches to augment stock. This is decent but entry level Swiss watch.

 

[roughbarked]

Thanks! Do you know how old this could be?


It also seems to only work when it’s on its back and I suspect it’s because the balance wheel keeps getting stopped by the gear above although it could be something else.

Probably 1930's?
The balance staff pivots could easily be damaged and the top balance jewel doesn't look good in your photo.