SALE Stunning 1888 Elgin Pocket Watch (6 Size) in Keystone 14K Hunting Case

Antiques : Clocks, Timepieces : Pocket Watches : Hunting Case : 6 Size

 

Stunning from cover to cover, this antique (circa 1888) 6 size, 15 jewel Elgin pocket watch is cased in a magnificent 14K gold Keystone hunting case, its bright-cut engraved decoration almost breathtaking. Each cover, front and back, shows what appears to be a bird (bluebird of happiness?) perched upon an open box frame, reaching toward a fly caught at the edge of a spider’s web. Peeking around and below the bird’s perch are foliage and flowers, with a lone fern frond draped across the case base. At the center of the perch on the back cover we see a church in the far-off distance, while on the front is a monogrammed “M”.

Certain of a sense of symbolism, its language and meaning a mystery to me, I ventured to the Internet to see if I could piece together the story line of this fabulous watch. However, I’ve come to realize that without the original script, I can merely pass on the cast of characters so that you might properly fit it to the story that is your own.

The bluebird is symbolic of happiness and fulfillment, a prosperity of heart and home. The spider web appears to signify different things for different people, including entanglement and the intricate framework and interplay of life. Ferns serve as a symbol of a secret bond of love, yet in Christian iconography is a symbol of the life and humility of the hermit. And, at the heart and the center of the one case panel is the personalized symbol of self (“M”) while on the reverse is a symbol of the sacred, the spiritual, the church.

Beautiful in all respects, this stem-wound, lever-set pocket watch is in good working condition and features a white enamel face with black roman numerals to mark the hours and a single sunk seconds dial. The serial number (3299163) indicates an approximate year of production at 1888.

The case (#1185147) is a 14K solid gold Keystone case, with front and back panels bearing the Keystone arch banner mark 14K and the dust cover providing the same as Warranted.

In good working condition, this pocket watch has a strong, soothing tick, but seems to need a cleaning; while it keeps good time while running, it tires easily. The crystal is clean and clear, and there’s no disputing that the case is absolutely gorgeous.

For those seeking a special gift for a loved one this holiday season but not familiar with watch sizes, the casing measures approx. 1-1/2" in diameter with a 1-1/4" crystal.

Item ID: C09002