2 Discussions and CommentsMember since Dec. 31, 2012
Hello,
I was recently given this watch by my relatives in Germany, it belonged to my Great Grandfather who passed in 1911 and has been in the family ever since. Watch runs and keeps accurate time, has basically been unused since 1940. A few minor surface scratches and dings.
I'm trying to determine an estimated value, whether this is a piece that should be appraised for insurance purposes or not, I plan to keep in the family as an heirloom. Also curious if it should be cleaned/polished since it has not been in use for so many years.
This is what I have been able to determine
Case number 79140 with IWC stamp (sheep holding feather) and what I assume is an Imperial German import stamp (Crown with 0.585 underneath)- assume this is Gold content corresponding to 14K
Movement stamp 59025 and matching case number 79140 with 'cuivre' on the inside of the movement cover. IWC stamp on the movement (Three letters imposed on top of each other
Stylized 'RA' on the Balance Arm? (not really sure what this is called)
Engraved 'W' on the back cover was initial of my GGF's first name
Some other questions:
Manufacture Date (1890-91)?
Is this an IWC Calibre Movement?
Unsigned, does this mean it was likely sold to a Dealer in Germany who sold the watch 'as is' without adding the Dealer signature?
What type of Box would this watch have come in? I have a box but I doubt its original, not wooden or fitted to hold the watch.
Indeed, it's a calibre IWC movement produced in 1890. The watch presumably cased and sold around 1892. The watch is "unsigned" which only means that there is no name on the dial --possibly the preference of the dealer.
The A/R means, in French, avance/retard or, in this context, fast/slow. It's how timekeeping would be adjusted.
I've seen mostly small leather cases for these watches, but I suspect your case may have been dealer supplied.
It's a very nice watch and I would have it overhauled by a competent repair person. The oils dry out, and it's worth keeping the watch in heirloom shape.
I was recently given this watch by my relatives in Germany, it belonged to my Great Grandfather who passed in 1911 and has been in the family ever since. Watch runs and keeps accurate time, has basically been unused since 1940. A few minor surface scratches and dings.
I'm trying to determine an estimated value, whether this is a piece that should be appraised for insurance purposes or not, I plan to keep in the family as an heirloom. Also curious if it should be cleaned/polished since it has not been in use for so many years.
This is what I have been able to determine
Some other questions:
Thank you for your interest and help!
Phil
The A/R means, in French, avance/retard or, in this context, fast/slow. It's how timekeeping would be adjusted.
I've seen mostly small leather cases for these watches, but I suspect your case may have been dealer supplied.
It's a very nice watch and I would have it overhauled by a competent repair person. The oils dry out, and it's worth keeping the watch in heirloom shape.
Regards, Michael
mfriedberg@iwcforum.com
Last edited: 2 January, 2013 - 20:05
Best,
Phil
Last edited: 2 January, 2013 - 19:47