What is the history of the American Waltham Watch Company?

The history of the American Waltham Watch Company started in 1854, when Aaron Lufkin Dennison founded the company in Waltham, Massachusetts. There, it began to manufacture watches with interchangeable parts, a new approach to production that allowed the company to prepare watches much more quickly than its competitors. Still, the company experienced economic hardships during its early years, and Dennison was forced to sell his company to Royal E. Robbins in 1857. When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Robbins and his business partners, Henry Asher Robbins and Daniel F. Appleton, capitalized on the military's need for reliable watches by introducing an inexpensive $13 timepiece called the William Ellery. Following the war, the company became a supplier to major railways. After a period of sluggish sales as a result of the Panic of 1907, the American Waltham Watch Company revived the business by expanding its manufacturing into fuses and other essential materials for World War I. By the 1920s, the company was producing wristwatches and continued to do so despite changes in ownership during the 1950s and ’60s. By the 1970s, the company was no longer manufacturing watches but had licensed its name to other watchmakers, a practice that continues to this day. On 1stDibs, find a range of American Waltham Watch Company watches.

What is the most prestigious watch company?

There is no single most prestigious watch company. In fact, many makers produce reliable, innovative timepieces out of fine materials. Some of the leading names in the world of luxury watches include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Vacheron Constantin, Richard Mille, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Blancpain, Cartier and Audemars Piguet. Find a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.

Is Cartier a watch company?

Yes, Cartier is a watch company. It also produces jewelry, sunglasses and other accessories. For its extraordinary range of bracelets, watches, rings and other adornments, French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the best-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world. One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, many people only used pocket watches.) Louis Cartier designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to check the time more easily while flying. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Cartier watches.

Is there an American watch movement?

Yes, there is an American watch movement. In fact, there are multiple movements made in the USA. One is the Ameriquartz movement, a battery-driven quartz movement manufactured by Arizona-based maker Fine Timepiece Solutions for VAER watches. Another is the Caliber 1003 mechanical wind movement, created by Weis and produced in Nashville, Tennessee. Find a diverse assortment of watches on 1stDibs.

What is the history of the Record Watch Company?

The history of the Record Watch Company traces back to Tramelan, Switzerland, where a group of watchmakers established the company. Their singular goal was to introduce a new type of pocket watch. Called the Sector Watch, the timepiece featured a triangular case and a retrograde display for easy reading. In 1916, the company merged with a number of other small Swiss makers to form the Record Dreadnought Watch Co. S.A. During the decades that followed, Record Dreadnought Watch manufactured a wide variety of clocks, watches and other components under several brand names, including Record. Like many watchmakers, Record Dreadnought Watch contributed to the war effort during World War II by manufacturing watches for the British military. In 1949, the company changed its name to Record Watch Co. S.A. Eleven years later, it became the first Swiss watchmaker to earn the approval of the U.S. government for its pocket watches to be used on U.S. railways. A year later, Longines purchased Record, though it continued to produce watches under the Record brand name for 30 years. Today, Longines has a collection that features timepieces inspired by the Record brand. Explore a selection of Record watches on 1stDibs.

How old is the Rado Watch Company?

The Rado Watch Company is more than 100 years old. Brothers Ernst, Fritz and Werner Schlup founded the company as Schlup & Co. in Lengnau, Switzerland, in 1917. During the 1950s, the brothers introduced the Rado watch brand and subsequently changed the name of their company to correspond with their successful collection. Find a range of Rado watches on 1stDibs.

What are the oldest British watch companies?

Here are some of the oldest British watch companies: Founded in 1846, the Fears Watch Company of Bristol operated continuously until the 1970s, when the quartz crisis led to financial difficulties. The founder's great-great-great grandson relaunched the brand in 2016. Other British brands with long histories include Smiths Watches, established in 1851, and the Rochester Watch Company, which opened in 1900. Shop a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.

Are Hamilton watches American or Swiss?

Whether Hamilton watches are American or Swiss depends on the timepiece in question. Prior to 2003, Hamilton manufactured its timepieces in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. After the company's sale to the Swatch Group, its headquarters and manufacturing facility relocated to Biel, Switzerland. Explore a variety of Hamilton watches on 1stDibs.

Does the Elgin Watch Company still exist?

No. The USA-based Elgin Watch Company sadly closed its doors in 1968. The rights to the Elgin name were purchased by MZ Berger Inc., which manufactures watches in China and distributes them outside of conventional watch shops. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Elgin watches from some of the world’s top sellers.

Is Vacheron Constantin the oldest watch company?

Yes, Vacheron Constantin is the oldest watch company in the world that remains in operation today. It was founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron, the son of a master weaver in Geneva who instilled in his children his belief that working with one’s hands is a noble endeavor. Vacheron took his father’s convictions to heart and opened his watchmaking workshop at the age of 24. The watchmaker made custom watches for royalty and was an innovator in its field. Since becoming known as Vacheron & Constantin in 1819 — and later, Vacheron Constantin — the company has enjoyed international acclaim for everything from jewelry watches to provocatively shaped designs. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of Vacheron Constantin watches.

Does the Waltham Watch Company still exist?

No, the Waltham Watch Company does not still exist. The watchmaker went out of business in 1981. However, a subsidiary of the original company, Waltham, SA, does continue to manufacture timepieces. Shop a range of Waltham Watch Company watches on 1stDibs.

When did the Illinois Watch Company go out of business?

The Illinois Watch Company went out of business in 1928. However, the Hamilton Watch Company purchased the brand and continued to manufacture timepieces under the Illinois name for decades after. In 2004, Swatch bought the Hamilton Watch Company and surrendered the Illinois Watch Company brand name. A new group of investors purchased the name in 2009 and began manufacturing timepieces under the brand again. Shop a range of Illinois Watch Company watches on 1stDibs.

What is the oldest American watch brand?

The oldest American watch brand that is still in operation is Waltham. When he founded the company in 1850, Aaron Lufkin Dennison revolutionized the industry by introducing the concept of replaceable watch components. This innovation allowed wristwatches and pocket watches to be produced in a fraction of the time it traditionally took to handcraft a watch with unique components. Find a selection of Waltham watches on 1stDibs.

American Watch Company

1920s Gold Pocket Watch

All Watches

Circa Watch

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco

World Time Watch

Factory Watch

Military Watches

Vintage Art Deco Watch

Category

Antique 1880s Central American Victorian Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold

18ct Gold Hunter Watch " American Watch Company " Waltham Mass USA c.1880

H 0.24 in W 0.04 in Dm 0.16 in

Art Deco White Gold Filled Ladies Watch by Bulova, Serviced, circa 1935

By Bulova Watch Company

Located in Westward ho, GB

watch company Bulova. For your consideration is this very attractive Bulova ‘Miss America’ ladies manual

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled, White Gold

Art Deco White Gold Filled Ladies Watch by Bulova, Serviced, circa 1935

Waltham American Riverside Pocket Watch with Fob and Charms

By American Waltham Watch Co.

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Own a bit of history with this exceptional ladies heirloom timepiece from Waltham American Watch

Category

Antique 1880s American Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Waltham American Riverside Pocket Watch with Fob and Charms

Gruen Gold Filled Art Deco Curvex Watch with Diamond Dial 1940's

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Gruen Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 449 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Gold Filled Art Deco Curvex Watch with Diamond Dial 1940's

Russian Submariners Watch All Original from 1940s / 50s Steel

By Hampden Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

Hampden Watch Company was one of the smaller American Watch Companies, however they produced exceptionally

Category

Mid-20th Century Modernist Wrist Watches

Russian Submariners Watch All Original from 1940s / 50s Steel

Russian Submariners Watch by the American House of Hampden

Located in Long Beach, CA

originally designed by an American Watch Company called Hampden, from Camden, Ohio. The watch is in its

Category

Mid-20th Century European Modernist Wrist Watches

Russian Submariners Watch by the American House of Hampden

Gruen Rare 14Kt Art Deco Tank Style Watch with Original Dial from 1930

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

is sad that they could not, like so many other American Watch Companies withstand the Swiss and

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Gruen Rare 14Kt Art Deco Tank Style Watch with Original Dial from 1930

Howard Steel Oversized Wristwatch Manual Winding from 1921

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

only were met by one American Watch Company, this model, made by Howard. This watch was originally

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Howard Steel Oversized Wristwatch Manual Winding from 1921

Gruen Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco "Bumper" Watch with Patinated Dial circa 940's

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

service to their customers. It is sad that they could not, like so many other American Watch Companies

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco "Bumper" Watch with Patinated Dial circa 940's

Gruen 10k Gold Filled Art Deco Watch

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

American Watch Companies withstand the Swiss and Japanese marketing.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen 10k Gold Filled Art Deco Watch

Gruen 14Kt Art Deco Ladies Watch with Original Dial and Kiln Fired Enamel Case

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

American Watch Companies withstand the Swiss and Japanese marketing.

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Gruen 14Kt Art Deco Ladies Watch with Original Dial and Kiln Fired Enamel Case

Waltham 14k Solid Yellow Gold American Art Deco Watch with Original Dial 1926

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

confident that you are wearing a piece of history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Waltham 14k Solid Yellow Gold American Art Deco Watch with Original Dial 1926

Gruen Steel & Gold Art Deco Watch circa 1930's with Original Dial

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

is sad that they could not, like so many other American Watch Companies, withstand the Swiss and

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold, Steel

Gruen Steel & Gold Art Deco Watch circa 1930's with Original Dial

Gruen Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Unique Quartered Dial circa 1950's

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

many other American Watch Companies, withstand the Swiss and Japanese marketing. Founded in 1894 by

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Unique Quartered Dial circa 1950's

Gruen Gold-Filled Art Deco Tank Watch with Custom Blue Dial

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

, like so many other American Watch Companies, withstand the Swiss and Japanese marketing. Founded in

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Gold-Filled Art Deco Tank Watch with Custom Blue Dial

Gruen 14k Solid Gold Art Deco Watch with Factory Original Dial circa 1926

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

to their customers. It is sad that they could not, like so many other American Watch Companies

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Gruen 14k Solid Gold Art Deco Watch with Factory Original Dial circa 1926

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

American Watch Companies. The average Howard watch will last hundreds of years with just average

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

Gruen 14Kt Solid Gold Curvex Art Deco Watch with Original Box circa 1940's

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

service to their customers. It is sad that they could not, like so many other American Watch Companies

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Gruen 14Kt Solid Gold Curvex Art Deco Watch with Original Box circa 1940's

Gruen Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial from 1940's

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Gruen Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 592 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial from 1940's

Waltham Nickel Campaign Watch

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury

Category

Vintage 1910s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Waltham Nickel Campaign Watch

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

acquired by the Keystone Watch Case Company. Keystone continued to produce Howard watches under the Howard

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

Howard Steel Oversized Wrist Watch Manual Winding from 1921

By Howard & Co., New York

Located in Long Beach, CA

American Watch Companies. The average Howard watch will last hundreds of years with just average

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Steel

Howard Steel Oversized Wrist Watch Manual Winding from 1921

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

helped establish America as a watchmaking capital along with the Waltham Watch Company. Howard’s

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Stainless Steel

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

Howard Oversized Watch with Custom Steel Exhibition Back Case, 1920s

By Howard & Co., New York

Located in Long Beach, CA

acquired by the Keystone Watch Case Company. Keystone continued to produce Howard watches under the Howard

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Howard Oversized Watch with Custom Steel Exhibition Back Case, 1920s

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

Howard apart from all the other American Watch Companies. The average Howard watch will last hundreds of

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Exhibition Back Watch, circa 1920's

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Watch Drivers Style and Original Dial

By E. Howard & Co.

Located in Long Beach, CA

America as a watchmaking capital along with the Waltham Watch Company. Howard’s creativity helped

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Howard Stainless Steel Art Deco Watch Drivers Style and Original Dial

Gruen Two-Tone Stainless Steel Yellow Gold Art Deco Automatic Watch from 1950's

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Gruen Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Reference 460SS-733 METAL

Category

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold, Stainless Steel

Gruen Two-Tone Stainless Steel Yellow Gold Art Deco Automatic Watch from 1950's

Art Deco Bulova Gents White Gold Fill Watch, Serviced, circa 1935

By Bulova Watch Company

Located in Westward ho, GB

For your consideration is this rather stylish and unusual gents manual wrist watch dating to 1935

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled, White Gold

Art Deco Bulova Gents White Gold Fill Watch, Serviced, circa 1935

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Watch

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

movement LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT Waltham is one of Americas earliest watch companies and designed

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Watch

Gruen Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style Watch with Rare Original Dial 1940's

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

American Watch Companies, withstand the Swiss and Japanese marketing. Founded in 1894 by Dietrich Gruen

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style Watch with Rare Original Dial 1940's

Waltham Platinum Rare Art Deco Watch with Original Dial from 1936

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

“industrialization.” Before the Waltham Watch Company, watches were generally produced by hand, in “cottage

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Platinum

Waltham Platinum Rare Art Deco Watch with Original Dial from 1936

Rockford Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Pocket Watch from 1886

By Rockford Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

Americas earliest watch factories. The company was located about 100 away from Chicago. on the Rock River

Category

Antique 1880s Swiss Early Victorian Pocket Watches

Rockford Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Pocket Watch from 1886

Waltham 14Kt Multi Colored 16 Size Hunters Case Pocket Watch from 1907

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury

Category

Antique Early 1900s American Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold

Waltham 14Kt Multi Colored 16 Size Hunters Case Pocket Watch from 1907

Gruen Gold Filled Rare Ristside Art Deco Watch 1950 with Original Strap

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

is sad that they could not, like so many other American Watch Companies, withstand the Swiss and

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Gold Filled Rare Ristside Art Deco Watch 1950 with Original Strap

Waltham Two Tone 14Kt. Solid Gold Rectangle Art Deco Watch circa 1927

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Two Tone 14Kt. Solid Gold Rectangle Art Deco Watch circa 1927

Waltham White Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial circa 1926

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury, Massachusetts. It

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham White Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial circa 1926

Waltham 14k Yellow Gold Hunters Cased Pocket Watch Circa 1900 Hand Engraved

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury

Category

Antique Early 1900s American Art Nouveau Pocket Watches

Materials

Yellow Gold

Waltham 14k Yellow Gold Hunters Cased Pocket Watch Circa 1900 Hand Engraved

Waltham 14Kt Solid Gold Art Deco Cushion Shape Watch from 1911 Applied Numerals

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

“industrialization.” Before the Waltham Watch Company, watches were generally produced by hand, in “cottage

Category

Vintage 1910s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Waltham 14Kt Solid Gold Art Deco Cushion Shape Watch from 1911 Applied Numerals

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Watch circa 1925 with Original Dial and Strap

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

confident that you are wearing a piece of history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Watch circa 1925 with Original Dial and Strap

Waltham Gold Filled Ladies Art Deco Watch Engraved June 14th, 1932 Original Dial

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

confident that you are wearing a piece of history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch

Category

Antique 15th Century and Earlier American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Gold Filled Ladies Art Deco Watch Engraved June 14th, 1932 Original Dial

Waltham Open Faced Gold Filled Pocket Watch Flawless Kiln Fired Enamel Dial 1892

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

confident that you are wearing a piece of history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch

Category

Antique 1890s American Pocket Watches

Waltham Open Faced Gold Filled Pocket Watch Flawless Kiln Fired Enamel Dial 1892

Waltham Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced 18 Size Pocket Watch with Flawless Dial

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

.” Before the Waltham Watch Company, watches were generally produced by hand, in “cottage” industries. They

Category

Antique Early 1900s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced 18 Size Pocket Watch with Flawless Dial

Illinois Gold Filled Art Deco Pocket Watch with Rare Hammered Case and Red Dial

By Illinois Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

is beautifully finished as well. Illinois was one of America's premier watch companies making high

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Illinois Gold Filled Art Deco Pocket Watch with Rare Hammered Case and Red Dial

Howard 14Kt. Solid White Gold Art Deco Pocket Watch with Kiln Fired Enamel Dial

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

America as a watchmaking capital along with the Waltham Watch Company. Howard’s creativity helped

Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Howard 14Kt. Solid White Gold Art Deco Pocket Watch with Kiln Fired Enamel Dial

Howard 14 Karat Solid White Gold Opened Faced Pocket Watch, circa 1920s

By E. Howard & Co.

Located in Long Beach, CA

innovations helped establish America as a watchmaking capital along with the Waltham Watch Company. Howard’s

Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

White Gold

Howard 14 Karat Solid White Gold Opened Faced Pocket Watch, circa 1920s

Howard Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Pocket Watch with Original Enamel Dial 1918

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

Howard apart from all the other American Watch Companies. The average Howard watch will last hundreds of

Category

Vintage 1910s Swiss Pocket Watches

Howard Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Pocket Watch with Original Enamel Dial 1918

Howard 14Kt Solid Gold Open Faced Pocket Watch 1925 Flawless Enamel Dial

By Howard

Located in Long Beach, CA

America as a watchmaking capital along with the Waltham Watch Company. Howard’s creativity helped

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold

Howard 14Kt Solid Gold Open Faced Pocket Watch 1925 Flawless Enamel Dial

Gruen Gold Filled Tonneau

By Gruen

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Gruen Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Tonneau / Reference 387 METAL / MATERIAL

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Gruen Gold Filled Tonneau

Vintage Patek Philippe Pocket Watch Pendant Platinum Estate Jewelry

By Patek Philippe

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

(Geneve). The case was made by American Watch Company and it is stamped inside A. W. C. CO., platinum

Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

Platinum

Vintage Patek Philippe Pocket Watch Pendant Platinum Estate Jewelry

H 1.63 in W 1.63 in

Waltham 14Kt Two Tone "Sapphire" Series Hand Engraved with Original Strap 1927

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Waltham 14Kt Two Tone "Sapphire" Series Hand Engraved with Original Strap 1927

Waltham Gold Filled Campaign Style with Original Flawless Enamel Dial from

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

American House of Waltham. We seldom see these early American watches in such fine condition. This watch

Category

Vintage 1920s American Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Gold Filled Campaign Style with Original Flawless Enamel Dial from

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Tortue with Breguet Engine Turned Dial from 1939

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

wearing a piece of history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Tortue with Breguet Engine Turned Dial from 1939

Waltham 14Kt. Gold Campaign Style Watch from 1915 with Original Enamel Dial 1929

By Waltham

Located in Long Beach, CA

the finest American watch companies, including those renowned Swiss houses imported to America. The

Category

Vintage 1910s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Waltham 14Kt. Gold Campaign Style Watch from 1915 with Original Enamel Dial 1929

Waltham White Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style Watch American Made 1940's

By Waltham

Located in Long Beach, CA

“industrialization.” Before the Waltham Watch Company, watches were generally produced by hand, in “cottage

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled, White Gold

Waltham White Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style Watch American Made 1940's

Waltham White Gold Filled Art Deco Watch circa 1934

By Waltham

Located in Long Beach, CA

history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Base Metal, Steel

Waltham White Gold Filled Art Deco Watch circa 1934

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Ladies Wrist Watch

By Waltham

Located in Long Beach, CA

wearing a piece of history. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded

Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Gold Filled Art Deco Ladies Wrist Watch

Waltham Yellow Gold Filled Hunters Case Pocket Watch 1901

By Waltham

Located in Long Beach, CA

.” Before the Waltham Watch Company, watches were generally produced by hand, in “cottage” industries. They

Category

Antique Early 1900s Wrist Watches

Waltham Yellow Gold Filled Hunters Case Pocket Watch 1901

Waltham "Sapphire" Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial

By Waltham

Located in Long Beach, CA

. The Waltham Watch Company was an American watch manufacturing house founded in 1850 in Roxbury

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham "Sapphire" Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial

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American Watch Company For Sale on 1stDibs

You are likely to find exactly the american watch company you’re looking for on 1stDibs, as there is a broad range for sale. Each design created in this style — which was crafted with great care and often made from gold, 14k gold and gold-filled — can elevate any look. Our collection of these items for sale includes 419 vintage editions and 11 modern creations to choose from as well. Finding the perfect american watch company may mean sifting through those created during different time periods — you can find an early version that dates to the 19th Century and a newer variation that were made as recently as the 21st Century. For this particular piece, 1 carat and 1.5 carat are consistently popular carat weights. Creating a american watch company has been a part of the legacy of many jewelers, but those produced by Elgin, Hamilton and Waltham Watch Company are consistently popular. A american watch company can be a stylish choice for most occasions, but diamond rings, from our inventory of 24, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look, day or night. A baguette cut version of this piece has appeal, but there are also round cut and brilliant cut versions for sale. Most of our american watch company for sale are for men, but there are 219 pieces available to browse for women.

How Much is an American Watch Company?

On average, a american watch company at 1stDibs sells for $1,658, while they’re typically $130 on the low end and $63,525 for the highest priced versions of this item.

Finding the Right Watches for You

Records show that, in Europe, by the 16th century, it was high time for portable clock devices. Right now, perhaps you’re shopping for your own. If so, find a vast range of fashionable and functional antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs.

While wall-mounted time tellers and grandfather clocks were much more convenient than the sundials of ancient history, watches were becoming crucial for an increasingly connected society whose members learned that the latest advancements in technology meant they could carry devices that kept time to within a minute a day. Tragically, the first pocket watches — albeit an improvement on the accessories that preceded them, which dangled from a chain worn around the neck — didn’t help much as far as accuracy or portability. Focused on style over substance, the upper class frequently carried lavish pieces that ran hours behind.

Eventually, watches migrated from owners’ pockets to their wrists. In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.

Indeed, although exceedingly practical, the watches of today are far from bland. Bulgari’s iconic Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional watches. You’ll always know what time it is because you won’t be able to tear your eyes away from your new accessory.

Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.

When shopping for a watch, it’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.

Find exactly what you’re looking for in an unparalleled collection of antique, vintage and luxury watches on 1stDibs that includes Cartier watches, Rolex watches, Patek Philippe watches and more — we promise it will be worth your time.

Questions About American Watch Company

What is the history of the American Waltham Watch Company?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
The history of the American Waltham Watch Company started in 1854, when Aaron Lufkin Dennison founded the company in Waltham, Massachusetts. There, it began to manufacture watches with interchangeable parts, a new approach to production that allowed the company to prepare watches much more quickly than its competitors. Still, the company experienced economic hardships during its early years, and Dennison was forced to sell his company to Royal E. Robbins in 1857. When the Civil War broke out in 1861, Robbins and his business partners, Henry Asher Robbins and Daniel F. Appleton, capitalized on the military's need for reliable watches by introducing an inexpensive $13 timepiece called the William Ellery. Following the war, the company became a supplier to major railways. After a period of sluggish sales as a result of the Panic of 1907, the American Waltham Watch Company revived the business by expanding its manufacturing into fuses and other essential materials for World War I. By the 1920s, the company was producing wristwatches and continued to do so despite changes in ownership during the 1950s and ’60s. By the 1970s, the company was no longer manufacturing watches but had licensed its name to other watchmakers, a practice that continues to this day. On 1stDibs, find a range of American Waltham Watch Company watches.
What is the most prestigious watch company?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 26, 2024
There is no single most prestigious watch company. In fact, many makers produce reliable, innovative timepieces out of fine materials. Some of the leading names in the world of luxury watches include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Omega, Vacheron Constantin, Richard Mille, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Blancpain, Cartier and Audemars Piguet. Find a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.
Is Cartier a watch company?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
Yes, Cartier is a watch company. It also produces jewelry, sunglasses and other accessories. For its extraordinary range of bracelets, watches, rings and other adornments, French luxury house Cartier is undeniably one of the best-known and internationally revered jewelers in the world. One of Cartier’s earliest major successes was the Santos de Cartier watch — one of the world's first modern wristwatches for men. (Previously, many people only used pocket watches.) Louis Cartier designed the timepiece in 1904 for his friend, popular Brazilian aviator Alberto Santos-Dumont, who wanted to be able to check the time more easily while flying. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Cartier watches.
Is there an American watch movement?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
Yes, there is an American watch movement. In fact, there are multiple movements made in the USA. One is the Ameriquartz movement, a battery-driven quartz movement manufactured by Arizona-based maker Fine Timepiece Solutions for VAER watches. Another is the Caliber 1003 mechanical wind movement, created by Weis and produced in Nashville, Tennessee. Find a diverse assortment of watches on 1stDibs.
What is the history of the Record Watch Company?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
The history of the Record Watch Company traces back to Tramelan, Switzerland, where a group of watchmakers established the company. Their singular goal was to introduce a new type of pocket watch. Called the Sector Watch, the timepiece featured a triangular case and a retrograde display for easy reading. In 1916, the company merged with a number of other small Swiss makers to form the Record Dreadnought Watch Co. S.A. During the decades that followed, Record Dreadnought Watch manufactured a wide variety of clocks, watches and other components under several brand names, including Record. Like many watchmakers, Record Dreadnought Watch contributed to the war effort during World War II by manufacturing watches for the British military. In 1949, the company changed its name to Record Watch Co. S.A. Eleven years later, it became the first Swiss watchmaker to earn the approval of the U.S. government for its pocket watches to be used on U.S. railways. A year later, Longines purchased Record, though it continued to produce watches under the Record brand name for 30 years. Today, Longines has a collection that features timepieces inspired by the Record brand. Explore a selection of Record watches on 1stDibs.
How old is the Rado Watch Company?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
The Rado Watch Company is more than 100 years old. Brothers Ernst, Fritz and Werner Schlup founded the company as Schlup & Co. in Lengnau, Switzerland, in 1917. During the 1950s, the brothers introduced the Rado watch brand and subsequently changed the name of their company to correspond with their successful collection. Find a range of Rado watches on 1stDibs.
What are the oldest British watch companies?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
Here are some of the oldest British watch companies: Founded in 1846, the Fears Watch Company of Bristol operated continuously until the 1970s, when the quartz crisis led to financial difficulties. The founder's great-great-great grandson relaunched the brand in 2016. Other British brands with long histories include Smiths Watches, established in 1851, and the Rochester Watch Company, which opened in 1900. Shop a wide range of watches on 1stDibs.
Are Hamilton watches American or Swiss?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
Whether Hamilton watches are American or Swiss depends on the timepiece in question. Prior to 2003, Hamilton manufactured its timepieces in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. After the company's sale to the Swatch Group, its headquarters and manufacturing facility relocated to Biel, Switzerland. Explore a variety of Hamilton watches on 1stDibs.
Does the Elgin Watch Company still exist?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
No. The USA-based Elgin Watch Company sadly closed its doors in 1968. The rights to the Elgin name were purchased by MZ Berger Inc., which manufactures watches in China and distributes them outside of conventional watch shops. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Elgin watches from some of the world’s top sellers.
Is Vacheron Constantin the oldest watch company?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
Yes, Vacheron Constantin is the oldest watch company in the world that remains in operation today. It was founded in 1755 by Jean-Marc Vacheron, the son of a master weaver in Geneva who instilled in his children his belief that working with one’s hands is a noble endeavor. Vacheron took his father’s convictions to heart and opened his watchmaking workshop at the age of 24. The watchmaker made custom watches for royalty and was an innovator in its field. Since becoming known as Vacheron & Constantin in 1819 — and later, Vacheron Constantin — the company has enjoyed international acclaim for everything from jewelry watches to provocatively shaped designs. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of Vacheron Constantin watches.
Does the Waltham Watch Company still exist?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
No, the Waltham Watch Company does not still exist. The watchmaker went out of business in 1981. However, a subsidiary of the original company, Waltham, SA, does continue to manufacture timepieces. Shop a range of Waltham Watch Company watches on 1stDibs.
When did the Illinois Watch Company go out of business?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
The Illinois Watch Company went out of business in 1928. However, the Hamilton Watch Company purchased the brand and continued to manufacture timepieces under the Illinois name for decades after. In 2004, Swatch bought the Hamilton Watch Company and surrendered the Illinois Watch Company brand name. A new group of investors purchased the name in 2009 and began manufacturing timepieces under the brand again. Shop a range of Illinois Watch Company watches on 1stDibs.
What is the oldest American watch brand?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
The oldest American watch brand that is still in operation is Waltham. When he founded the company in 1850, Aaron Lufkin Dennison revolutionized the industry by introducing the concept of replaceable watch components. This innovation allowed wristwatches and pocket watches to be produced in a fraction of the time it traditionally took to handcraft a watch with unique components. Find a selection of Waltham watches on 1stDibs.

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