Waltham Pocket Watch - Mystery!

[Candix]

Hi all,

I have a Pocket Watch Mystery - I own a Waltham Hunter pocket watch model 1899 s/n 11852183 and believe it to be a 1903 model. I've had this watch for many years and have been puzzled about it's history.
This watch has a badge fixed to the front which I think is a 'Coat of Arms for Serbia' It is an American watch with a Serbian coat of arms affixed to the front cover. Have asked many people over the years but no one I have asked can give me any explanation.
Have included some pictures for perusal.
Would appreciate any information I could get from the many watch enthusiasts out there.
Regards Brian

 

[Jerry Treiman]

You have an 1899 model 16-size Waltham that was made around 1902. I might guess that it was a gift, either to the Serbian ambassador or other visiting dignitary, or perhaps a gift from their ambassador in the U.S. to some other worthy dignitary. Is there any inscription or presentation engraved anywhere on the inside covers?

 

[John Cote]

I like Jerry's speculation but I will just say that anybody with the money to do it could get a jeweler/goldsmith to do work like this. It could be that a wealthy Serbian immigrant wanted a watch which would show pride in his heritage. There are a plethora of potential explanations. You will never really know unless there is also an inscription you could trace. Barring that or some other verifiable provenance anything will simply be speculation.

 

[Candix]

I like Jerry's speculation but I will just say that anybody with the money to do it could get a jeweler/goldsmith to do work like this. It could be that a wealthy Serbian immigrant wanted a watch which would show pride in his heritage. There are a plethora of potential explanations. You will never really know unless there is also an inscription you could trace. Barring that or some other verifiable provenance anything will simply be speculation.

Hi again, Thanks for your reply much appreciated - Unfortunately, there is no inscription anywhere on the covers - what a bummer!