Posted 13 years ago
havenrain
(15 items)
This watch belongs to my 83 year old Uncle, who received it from his late brother. We would like to know how old, is it a railroad watch and what it may be worth. Inside the case reads; Keystone J. Boss 10k gold filled #8843137, Inside clock works reads; ELINVAR Bunn special, Illinois Watch Springfield, 21 Jewels, adjusted temp. and 6 positions, motor barrel 60 hour, 161A, 5527737 Any help would be appreciated. Thank you!
Thanks so much AR8Jason, I will check out that web site.
Hi,
What you have is a very nice size 16s. Gold-set jewels (as opposed to press-in jewels). The important part is "Elvinar" (a type of balance), which is signed on the train bridge. It has a current "book" value of $900-$1700. depending on condition.
Thanks for showing it.
Jim
OMGosh Jim that is what he was hoping to hear. The watch itself is in perfect condition, and keeps perfect time. Thank you so much!
Jim, I forgot to ask you what does 16's mean? Thanks!
Thanks!!
Jason, my 83 year old uncle told us today to do whatever we wanted because he doesn't have children or anyone to leave it to. So sad!
Thanks Kevin I will delete that post!
We live in the Huntington/Charleston area of WV
Hi,
If you are interested in selling your watch, there are a couple of do's and do not's.
Do not take it to a jeweler or offer it for sale at a watch show to a dealer. They will low-ball you and smile while giving you excuses why it isn't worth as much a the book suggests. The book being Shugart's Price Guide to Watches (The Bible). Your best bet is to have some pictures taken with a good camera. Eliminate all the finger prints etc. Take a great picture of the dial and movement also. Then list it on-line starting at the middle book value. What you will gain by doing it this way is that you will e get full value for your watch by eliminateing the "middle man". FYI your Illinois Bunn Special is considered by many watchmaker's as the best American production watch ever made.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thank you Jim!!