Pocket watch cases - engraved, die engraved, engine turned?

[okiejohn]

Just wondering if there are any tips on determining how a case is decorated, and how to determine if it is hand engraved, die engraved, engine turned, etc.?

For instance, I have this watch I just acquired...it's an Illinois Grade 14, SN 1119004, a 6s, 7j lever set watch (2,000 total made). The 14k (Warranted U.S. Assay) case is decorated with a detailed floral decoration. The case is marked, "J & CO. " (Jeanneret & Co.? Jeannot & Co.? )My untrained eye thinks it is hand engraved ( a complete guess on my part), but what do I know?

Some cases even my untrained eye can distinguish as machine applied decoration, but how about cases like this one?

An interesting aside, it was sold as a gold plated case, without any good photos of the inside of the case, so I was pleasantly surprised to find the WARRANTED U.S. ASSAY mark! Not bad for a $27 bid!

Thanks in advance for any advice!

 

[Jerry Treiman]

What a lovely case (and a tremendous find)! I do not know if the design was based on a pantograph transfer, but the depth of engraving leads me to believe it is probably hand-finished.

For comparison, here is a similar vintage 4-size J.Boss case that I think must have been from a pantograph transfer, without much hand work -

(writer's collection; photo courtesy Fred Hansen)

 

[okiejohn]

but the depth of engraving leads me to believe it is probably hand-finished.

Thanks for the information, Jerry. I've always looked at the depth of the design and the sharpness of the edges of them to determine what I think might be hand engraved designs. Would you say that is a viable method? Probably not fool proof but at least a starting point?

 

[4thdimension]

I do not know if the design was based on a pantograph transfer, but the depth of engraving leads me to believe it is probably hand-finished.

Exactly. I've had those pantograph line cases that were finished by a hand engraver following the diagram. If you put on a loupe you might detect the wavering cuts that indicate a human hand was involved in the making. -Cort

 

[musicguy]

I agree with Jerry what a nice looking case, and the 6 size it a great size watch too.


Rob