How do I know if my pocket watch is valuable?

To know if your pocket watch is valuable, consult a licensed appraiser. Choose one with experience appraising antique and vintage timepieces. Having your pocket watch evaluated by a knowledgeable professional is the only way to be certain of its value. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique and vintage pocket watches.

How do I identify a railroad pocket watch?

To identify a railroad pocket watch, first determine how you set and wind it. Most pocket watches have winding knobs, but railroad-grade timepieces were all made to be lever-set. To wind and set them, it's necessary to remove the bezel, so if your pocket watch has a winding knob, it's unlikely to be railroad-grade. There were also regulations concerning the numbers. All railroad-grade watches will have large black hour markers in Arabic, not Roman, numerals. Maker's markings may also provide a clue. Some well-known makers of railroad-grade pocket watches include Elgin, Hamilton, Waltham and E. Howard. For an expert opinion on your timepiece, have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer evaluate it. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of railroad pocket watches.

What makes a watch railroad approved?

Watches that were approved by a railroad organization for use by their conductors were considered railroad approved or railroad graded. Of course, the railroads wanted to run on time and maintain a reputation for efficiency. By demanding that all of their employees use railroad graded watches meeting certain specifications, they could at least ensure the conductors knew the time accurately. Shop a collection of pocket watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is a pocket watch pocket called?

A pocket watch pocket is called by a number of names. You will sometimes see people refer to it simply as a watch pocket. Other names include a coin pocket or a fob pocket. Find a variety of antique pocket watches on 1stDibs.

What is the best pocket watch?

The best pocket watch is a matter of preference. The earliest pocket watches were luxury items, and, owing to cost, they weren’t commonplace until the 19th century. Artfully crafted pocket watches were a symbol of wealth. Brands like Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin, and Audemars Piguet are internationally renowned makers of pocket watches. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage pocket watches.

How do I store pocket watches?

How you store pocket watches is largely a matter of personal preference. Generally, you should keep them in a storage container designed specifically for stowing delicate items, such as a velvet-lined jewelry box, a watch box or on a watch stand. Shop a variety of antique and vintage pocket watches on 1stDibs.

What is a pocket watch fob?

A pocket watch fob refers to the chain or ribbon to which a pocket watch is attached. Its purpose was to make the watch more readily accessible to the wearer. You’ll find a variety of pocket watch fobs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is a Fusee pocket watch?

A fusee pocket watch — named for the French word fusée — is an antique type of watch with a crescent pulley and a curved groove around it that is wound with a cord or chain. The chain is attached to the mainspring barrel. Find a range of vintage fusee pocket watches on 1stDibs today.

How can I speed up my pocket watch?

The way to speed up your pocket watch depends on the specific model of timepiece that you have. To avoid damage, take it to a watch repair shop with experience repairing pocket watches to make adjustments. You'll find a selection of pocket watches on 1stDibs.

What is a hunter pocket watch?

A hunter pocket watch is a pocket watch with a metal case that has a spring hinged lid to cover the watch face and protect it from damage.

What is the most sought-after pocket watch?

The most highly sought-after pocket watch will vary over time as trends in collecting do come and go. However, some pocket watches remain consistently popular among collectors. These timepieces include dress watches, such as those crafted by Elgin, Audemars Piguet and Patek Phillippe; railroad pocket watches produced by makers like Illinois and Hamilton; and military timepieces manufactured by Rolex and Omega. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of pocket watches.

What's the most expensive pocket watch?

What the most expensive pocket watch is will vary over time as luxury watchmakers release new models. In 2019, Patek Philippe set a record when a brand new Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 fetched an auction price of $31 million, making it the most expensive pocket watch ever sold. Before that, another Patek Philippe model, a 1932 Henry Graves Supercomplication, held the record. Explore a wide range of pocket watches on 1stDibs.

How do you change a battery in a pocket watch?

To change a battery in a pocket watch, you must first remove the watch back. Depending on the type of watch, you may need a specially designed tool or a precision screwdriver to accomplish this task. Once you have the back removed, you may need to remove parts to access the battery and perform the replacement. Because there is so much variability in timepiece design and you could potentially damage your watch when removing the back and other parts, experts recommend having an experienced watch repairer replace the battery. On 1stDibs, explore a collection of pocket watches.

How can I tell the year of a pocket watch?

The best way to determine the year of a pocket watch is to identify and look up the serial number. Pocket watch serial numbers can be located inside the watch once you remove or open the back cover of the watch. Shop a wide range of pocket watches on 1stDibs.

How do I open a Howard pocket watch?

How to open a Howard pocket watch depends on its design. However, experts recommend that you don't attempt to open one yourself. Instead, take the piece to a watch repair center that has experience servicing pocket watches. Doing so will help you avoid damaging the timepiece. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Howard pocket watches.

Does Rolex make pocket watches?

Rolex made pocket watches from 1905 through to the 1970s. The last pocket watch released was a small, ultra-formal 18 karat piece. Own a piece of history by shopping a selection of Rolex pocket watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How do I open a Hamilton pocket watch?

To open a Hamilton pocket watch, take it to a reputable watch repair shop. Experts advise against opening antique pocket watches on your own because special tools are necessary to avoid damaging the timepieces. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Hamilton pocket watches.

What size is a ladies pocket watch?

Pocket watches come in a variety of sizes but the most popular sizes for women are 0s, 6s and 8s. Measuring pocket watches is a bit confusing and to make it easier a 0s is1.166”, a 6s is 1.367” and 8s is 1.433”. So it’s fairly safe to say that an average size for a woman’s pocket watch is between 1 and 1.5 inches. Find vintage and contemporary pocket watches from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

What is a minute repeater pocket watch?

A minute repeater pocket watch comes with a repeater that chimes the time by pushing a button. They come with three different chimes; the hours have a low chime, minute by a high chime, and quarter hours by a sequence of two chimes. Shop a range of antique and vintage pocket watches on 1stDibs.

What are pocket watch chains called?

A pocket watch chain is called a fob, or watch fob. They can be made in a variety of materials, but most often appear in a metal that matches the case of the watch itself. Shop a collection of antique watch fobs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is a 17 jewel pocket watch?

A pocket watch with 17 jewels is called a fully jeweled watch. For the mechanical movement, it uses jewel bearings from the center wheel pivot to the balance wheel. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of antique and vintage pocket watch options.

What is a half hunter pocket watch?

Like its hunter-case cousin, the half-hunter pocket watch features a protective lid or case that protects the face of the watch. The distinction is that the case front has a viewing window that allows the owner to check the time without having to open the pocket watch lid. The hours are frequently inscribed in blue enamel on the exterior lid itself, making it possible to tell the time without opening the case. Shop a range of vintage half-hunter pocket watches on 1stDibs.

What is a full hunter pocket watch?

Full hunter pocket watches are a popular choice for those nostalgic for timepieces of years past. The solid outer case of this type of watch, which often features intricate designs, needs to be opened in order to reveal the watch’s face. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage watches.

Railroad Pocket Watch

Hamilton 992b

American Waltham Pocket Watches

Railroad Silver

1939 Hamilton Watches

Waltham 16 size 23 jewel Vanguard Circa 1937 Open Face Railroad Pocket Watch

$1,190

Waltham 16 size 23 jewel Vanguard Circa 1937 Open Face Railroad Pocket Watch

By Waltham

Located in Dallas, TX

Waltham 16 size 23 jewel Vanguard Circa 1937 Open Face Railroad Pocket Watch - Manual winding

Category

20th Century American Pocket Watches

Ball Watch Co. Open Faced Railroad Pocket Watch circa 1920

$1,550

Ball Watch Co. Open Faced Railroad Pocket Watch circa 1920

By Ball Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Ball Watch Co. STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced High Grade Railroad Pocket Watch

Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Elgin 23 Jewel Veritas Up Down Indicator Very Rare 18 Size Railroad Pocket Watch

$3,590

Elgin 23 Jewel Veritas Up Down Indicator Very Rare 18 Size Railroad Pocket Watch

By Elgin

Located in Dallas, TX

Elgin 23 Jewel Veritas Up Down Indicator Very Rare 18 Size Railroad Pocket Watch - Manual winding

Category

20th Century American Wrist Watches

Illinois Elinvar Bunn Special 163A Type IIB 23 Jewel Railroad Pocket Watch

$3,950

H 0.6 in W 2.02 in

Illinois Elinvar Bunn Special 163A Type IIB 23 Jewel Railroad Pocket Watch

Located in New York, NY

A distinguished Illinois Bunn Elinvar Special pocket watch, crafted in a 14k gold filled case and

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Waltham Vanguard #1892 23 jewels RailRoad Antique Open Face Pocket Watch, c1901.

$1,850

Dm 52 in

Waltham Vanguard #1892 23 jewels RailRoad Antique Open Face Pocket Watch, c1901.

Located in MELBOURNE, AU

Webster Clay Ball for Railroad watches, the pocket watch is opening to reveal Manual Movement of 23

Category

Antique Early 1900s American Edwardian Pocket Watches

Materials

Gilt Metal

American Watch Co. Waltham Pocket Watch Model 1908 "Railroad Grade"

$1,550

American Watch Co. Waltham Pocket Watch Model 1908 "Railroad Grade"

By American Waltham Watch Co.

Located in Dallas, TX

American Watch Co. Waltham Pocket Watch Model 1908 "Railroad Grade" - Manual winding; 23 jewels

Category

20th Century American Pocket Watches

Hamilton Railroad Gold Filled Pocket Watch

$1,295

Hamilton Railroad Gold Filled Pocket Watch

By Hamilton

Located in Laguna Beach, CA

Hamilton open face railroad watch, white Gold-Filled case. Size 16, 23 jewels, 5 position adjust

Category

Mid-20th Century Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton Railroad Grade U.S. Ordinance Pocket Watch w Original Packaging

$1,000

Hamilton Railroad Grade U.S. Ordinance Pocket Watch w Original Packaging

By Hamilton

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Railroad Grade Pocket Watch was designed for use by US Air Force Navigators and Bombardiers. Dated

Category

Vintage 1960s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Steel

A & S Railroad Gold Minute Repeating Pocket Watch Presented to J.H. Ramsey, 1865

$55,950

A & S Railroad Gold Minute Repeating Pocket Watch Presented to J.H. Ramsey, 1865

Located in Stamford, CT

, highly jeweled repeater. This is a minute repeating pocket watch with a chime that has a railroad-type

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Swiss Victorian Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Illinois Railroad Grade Bunn Special Mens Gold Filled Pocket Watch Circa 1923

$1,195

Dm 2.05 in

Illinois Railroad Grade Bunn Special Mens Gold Filled Pocket Watch Circa 1923

By Illinois Watch Company

Located in Boston, MA

An early 20th century Illinois Watch Company Railroad grade Mens Pocket Watch. The watch features a

Category

Early 20th Century Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Illinois Railroad Bunn Special Antique Mens 21 Jewel Gold Filled Pocket Watch

$1,195

H 0.6 in W 2.01 in

Illinois Railroad Bunn Special Antique Mens 21 Jewel Gold Filled Pocket Watch

By Illinois Watch Company

Located in Boston, MA

This Illinois Watch Company pocket watch is crafted in gold-filled material. The watch features a

Category

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Vintage Elgin B.W. Raymond Wind Indicator 23 Jewel Railroad Grade Pocket Watch

$2,490

Vintage Elgin B.W. Raymond Wind Indicator 23 Jewel Railroad Grade Pocket Watch

By Elgin

Located in New York, NY

This vintage Elgin B.W. Raymond pocket watch exemplifies the precision and craftsmanship that made

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

10k Gold

Antique 1915 Hampden Watch Co Railway 15J 16s 14K Gold Filled Open Face Pocket

$1,960

Dm 0.63 in

Antique 1915 Hampden Watch Co Railway 15J 16s 14K Gold Filled Open Face Pocket

By Hampden Watch Company

Located in Miami, FL

An antique circa 1915 Hampden Watch Company Railway grade 15-jewel 16-size pocket watch in a 14K

Category

Vintage 1910s Wrist Watches

Materials

15k Gold

Elgin Railroad 21 Jewel Veritas 18 Size Up Down Wind Indicator

$2,150

Elgin Railroad 21 Jewel Veritas 18 Size Up Down Wind Indicator

By Elgin

Located in Dallas, TX

Grade 239 Class A Railroad Approved Pocket Watch. Ornately Engraved Screw Back And Bezel B&B Royal

Category

20th Century American Wrist Watches

Elgin Rare 21 Jewel Free Sprung Up-Down Indicator Rare Roman Numeral Dial

$2,750

Elgin Rare 21 Jewel Free Sprung Up-Down Indicator Rare Roman Numeral Dial

By Elgin

Located in Dallas, TX

Enamel Dial Made For The Canadian Market. Model 8 Grade 412 Railroad Approved Pocket Watch From A Private

Category

20th Century American Wrist Watches

Hamilton Platinum Art Deco Tank Style with Original Diamond Dial

$5,200

Hamilton Platinum Art Deco Tank Style with Original Diamond Dial

By Hamilton

Located in Long Beach, CA

in Lancaster Pennsylvania. They originally specialized in railroad grade pocket watches of extreme

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Recent Sales

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Railroad Caliber 992 Pocket Watch, circa 1936

Unavailable

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Railroad Caliber 992 Pocket Watch, circa 1936

By Hamilton

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Hamilton Railroad pocket watch grade 992 movement serial # 2.6 million circa 1936. Featuring 16

Category

Vintage 1930s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

14 Karat Yellow Gold Pocket Watch Fob with Blue Sapphire

Unavailable

14 Karat Yellow Gold Pocket Watch Fob with Blue Sapphire

Located in Little Neck, NY

14k Yellow Gold Pocket Watch Fob with blue sapphire. Vintage watch chain with Railroad Order Fob

Category

Early 20th Century Unknown Pocket Watches

Materials

Sapphire, 14k Gold

Pocketwatch Reguateur Veritable Echappement Roskopf Oversized Railroad

Unavailable

D 0.78 in Dm 2.5 in

Pocketwatch Reguateur Veritable Echappement Roskopf Oversized Railroad

Located in Aliso Viejo, CA

Sterling Silver Antique Pocketwatch Reguateur Veritable Echappement Roskopf Oversized Railroad Half

Category

Antique Early 19th Century American Civil War Pocket Watches

Materials

Sterling Silver

Illinois Bunn Special Railroad Pocket Watch

Sold

Illinois Bunn Special Railroad Pocket Watch

By Illinois Watch Company

Located in Towson, MD

One 1921 yellow gold filled open face Illinois Bunn Special railroad pocket watch serial number

Category

Vintage 1920s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled, Yellow Gold

Victorian Elgin Railroad Pocket Watch 1915 Grade 293 Engraved Size 16

Sold

Victorian Elgin Railroad Pocket Watch 1915 Grade 293 Engraved Size 16

By Elgin

Located in Dearborn, MI

Victorian Elgin Railroad Pocket Watch 1915 Grade 293 Engraved Size 16 Elgin Pocketwatch All

Category

Vintage 1910s Victorian Pocket Watches

Hamilton Watch Co. 940 Railroad Pocket Watch Manual 21 Jewel Size 18

Sold

Hamilton Watch Co. 940 Railroad Pocket Watch Manual 21 Jewel Size 18

By Hamilton

Located in Dearborn, MI

Hamilton Watch Co. 940 Railroad Pocket Watch Manual 21 Jewel Size 18 Lever Set Working Dial Has

Category

Antique Early 1900s Victorian Pocket Watches

Ball Gold Filled 21 Jewels Hamilton Railroad Pocket Watch

Sold

Ball Gold Filled 21 Jewels Hamilton Railroad Pocket Watch

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

Movement: manual wind Function: hours, minutes, sub seconds Case: 51mm gold filled case, gold filled bezel, plastic crystal, solid case back Dial: white dial, black hands, Arabic nu...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Enamel Dial Railroad Pocket Watch, 1940s

Sold

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Enamel Dial Railroad Pocket Watch, 1940s

By Hamilton

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced Pocket Watch METAL

Category

Vintage 1910s Swiss Modern Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Elgin Veritas 23 Jewel Railroad Pocket Watch with Up Down Indicator

Sold

H 2.13 in Dm 1.94 in

Elgin Veritas 23 Jewel Railroad Pocket Watch with Up Down Indicator

By Elgin Clocks

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A recently serviced working pocket watch of the highest quality produced by Elgin. The model is

Category

Vintage 1910s American Collectible Jewelry

Elgin Rare Gold Filled Keystone Case Railroad Manual winding Pocket Watch

Sold

Elgin Rare Gold Filled Keystone Case Railroad Manual winding Pocket Watch

By Elgin

Located in Dallas, TX

Very Rare Elgin 14k Gold Filled 21j Keystone Case Railroad Pocket Watch - Manual winding, 21 jewel

Category

Vintage 1930s American Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Hampden Watch Co. A Highly Engraved Railroad Full Hunter Pocket Watch C1890

Sold

Dm 2.17 in

Hampden Watch Co. A Highly Engraved Railroad Full Hunter Pocket Watch C1890

By Hampden Watch Company

Located in Mayfair, London, London

Hampden Watch Co. A Highly Engraved Heavy 14ct Gold Full Hunter Keyless Lever Railroad Pocket Watch

Category

Antique 19th Century American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold

Pocket Watch Bunn Special 21 Jewel Railroad Illinois Watch Co 18 Size

Sold

Pocket Watch Bunn Special 21 Jewel Railroad Illinois Watch Co 18 Size

By Illinois Watch Company

Located in Dearborn, MI

Pocket Watch Bunn Special 21 Jewel Railroad Illinois Watch Co 18 Size Bunn Special Springfield

Category

Antique 1890s Pocket Watches

Hamilton Gold Plated Railway Special Pocket Watch Model 992B

Sold

Dm 1.97 in

Hamilton Gold Plated Railway Special Pocket Watch Model 992B

By Hamilton

Located in Dallas, TX

and popular railroad pocket watches of all time. Very hard to find one in this condition and with the

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

18 Karat Gold Waltham Railroad Watch

Sold

Dm 2.13 in

18 Karat Gold Waltham Railroad Watch

By American Waltham Watch Co.

Located in New Orleans, LA

Waltham Watch Company is a remarkable work of horological craftsmanship. Railroad watches such as this are

Category

Antique 19th Century American Artist Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold

Vintage 1923 Illinois Pocket Watch, Railroad, Gold-Plated, Working, 17 Jewel

Sold

Dm 1.97 in

Vintage 1923 Illinois Pocket Watch, Railroad, Gold-Plated, Working, 17 Jewel

Located in San Diego, CA

Vintage 1923 Illinois Pocket watch, Railroad, Gold Plated, Working, Size 16s, 17 Jewel, Openface

Category

Vintage 1920s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold Plate

Hamilton Stainless Steel Railway Special Pocket Watch

Sold

Hamilton Stainless Steel Railway Special Pocket Watch

By Hamilton

Located in Dallas, TX

Hamilton Stainless Steel Railway Special Pocket Watch - Manual winding, 21 jewels.. Stainless steel

Category

20th Century American Wrist Watches

Hamilton Railroad Grade 992B Railway Special 21 Jewel Pocket Watch Circa 1942

Sold

W 2.05 in

Hamilton Railroad Grade 992B Railway Special 21 Jewel Pocket Watch Circa 1942

By Hamilton

Located in Boston, MA

watch in original bar over crown railroad case. Complete with matching double sunk porcelain Railway

Category

Vintage 1940s Pendant Necklaces

Materials

Gold

Hamilton Platinum Diamond Bezel Wristwatch

Sold

Hamilton Platinum Diamond Bezel Wristwatch

By Hamilton

Located in Long Beach, CA

originally specialized in railroad grade pocket watches of extreme accuracy. This 17 jewel movement was their

Category

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

14 Karat Yellow Gold Pocket Watch Fob with B of F L & E Medallion

Sold

14 Karat Yellow Gold Pocket Watch Fob with B of F L & E Medallion

Located in Scottsdale, AZ

14k Yellow Gold Pocket Watch Fob with B of F L & E Medallion Vintage watch chain with Railroad

Category

Mid-20th Century American Modern More Jewelry

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

1907 Burlington Railroad Pocket Watch

Sold

Dm 2 in

1907 Burlington Railroad Pocket Watch

Located in Coeur d Alene, ID

Railroad, Pocket Watches, Watches, Burlington, Antique Family Owned & Operated Cisco’s Gallery deals in

Category

Early 20th Century Pocket Watches

Materials

14k Gold

Vintage Hamilton Gold-Filled Railroad Pocket Watch Size 16

Sold

Vintage Hamilton Gold-Filled Railroad Pocket Watch Size 16

By Hamilton

Located in Laguna Beach, CA

Hamilton gold filled, open face, Railroad pocket watch. Size 16, 21 jewel double roller movement

Category

Vintage 1930s Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Collinwood & Sons Sterling Silver Railroad Pocket Watch

Sold

Collinwood & Sons Sterling Silver Railroad Pocket Watch

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Outstanding antique sterling silver pocket watch by Collinwood & Sons of Middleboush, England

Category

Antique Early 1900s British Pocket Watches

Materials

Sterling Silver

Hamilton Vintage American Railroad Pocket Watch Grade 992B Yellow Gold Filled

Sold

Hamilton Vintage American Railroad Pocket Watch Grade 992B Yellow Gold Filled

By Hamilton

Located in Boston, MA

Aston Estate Jewelry Presents: A classic Hamilton Railroad pocket watch, model 992B. The round

Category

Vintage 1920s Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham Railroad Pocket Watch Year 1905 Heavy Ore Silver Working #14391483

Sold

D 0.83 in Dm 2.17 in

Waltham Railroad Pocket Watch Year 1905 Heavy Ore Silver Working #14391483

By American Waltham Watch Co.

Located in San Diego, CA

Vintage 1905 Waltham railroad grade pocket watch that has a 55mm Fahy case that is ore silver, 21mm

Category

1990s American Edwardian Pocket Watches

Materials

Silver

Illinois Gold-Filled Bunn Special Railroad Pocket Watch circa 1927

Sold

Dm 2.01 in

Illinois Gold-Filled Bunn Special Railroad Pocket Watch circa 1927

Located in New York, NY

Gold-filled Illinois Bunn Special pocket watch, circa 1927. The 51mm case has a screw bezel and

Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Enamel Dial Railroad Pocket Watch, 1940s

Sold

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Enamel Dial Railroad Pocket Watch, 1940s

By Hamilton

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Hamilton Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Faced Pocket Watch METAL

Category

Vintage 1910s Swiss Modern Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Enamel Dial Railroad Pocket Watch 1940's

Sold

Hamilton Yellow Gold Filled Open Faced Enamel Dial Railroad Pocket Watch 1940's

By Hamilton

Located in Long Beach, CA

-made watch. Hamilton quickly became a leading manufacturer of pocket watches, and by the early 1900s

Category

Vintage 1940s Swiss Pocket Watches

Illinois Abe Lincoln 21 Jewel Manual Wind Railroad Pocket Watch

Sold

Dm 2.01 in

Illinois Abe Lincoln 21 Jewel Manual Wind Railroad Pocket Watch

Located in Dallas, TX

Manual winding; openface; nickel finish; lever set; 21 jewel. 10k yellow gold filled case keystone J. Boss 16s (51mm diameter). White enamel double sunk dial with subseconds. Pre-ow...

Category

20th Century Wrist Watches

Materials

10k Gold, Yellow Gold

Illinois Railroad Gold Filled Pocket Watch

Sold

Illinois Railroad Gold Filled Pocket Watch

By Illinois Watch Company

Located in Dallas, TX

Illinois Railroad Gold Filled ca. 1923 Railroad Grade Pocket Watch - Manual winding; 21 Jewels

Category

20th Century American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

1920s Antique Hamilton Fahys 972 Railroad Pocket Watch 17 Jewels Dome Display

Sold

H 5.125 in Dm 3.5 in

1920s Antique Hamilton Fahys 972 Railroad Pocket Watch 17 Jewels Dome Display

By Hamilton

Located in Dayton, OH

Antique 1920s mechanical pocket watch by Hamilton Watch Company of Lancaster, PA, featuring a gold

Category

Vintage 1920s Edwardian Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Metal

Elgin Pocket Watch Silverode Railroad Heavy Working 7 Jewel Year 1921

Sold

D 0.79 in Dm 2.33 in

Elgin Pocket Watch Silverode Railroad Heavy Working 7 Jewel Year 1921

By Elgin

Located in San Diego, CA

Elgin 1921 railroad pocket watch with a 59mm case made of silverode and is 20mm thick. Heavy watch

Category

Vintage 1920s American Modern Pocket Watches

Materials

Silver

Rockford Watch Co. Railroad Style Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

Sold

Rockford Watch Co. Railroad Style Pocket Watch with Skeleton Display Back

By Rockford Watch Company

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Enjoy this circa 1903 Rockford Railroad Style Pocket Watch with fancy engraved brass case. This

Category

Antique Early 1900s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Brass

Elgin Tricolor Gold Railroad Locomotive Engine Pocket Watch

Sold

Elgin Tricolor Gold Railroad Locomotive Engine Pocket Watch

By Elgin

Located in South Pasadena, CA

Rare Antique Elgin Gentleman's Pocket Watch With Railroad Locomotive It is so attractive, just

Category

Antique Early 1900s Art Nouveau Pocket Watches

Hamilton Railroad Style Brass Pocket Watch, circa 1925

Sold

Hamilton Railroad Style Brass Pocket Watch, circa 1925

By Hamilton

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Enjoy owning this heirloom circa 1925 Hamilton Railroad Style Pocket Watch. Set in a brass case

Category

Vintage 1920s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Brass

Hamilton Yellow Gold Railroad Grade 992B Pocket Watch

Sold

Dm 1.97 in

Hamilton Yellow Gold Railroad Grade 992B Pocket Watch

By Hamilton

Located in New York, NY

Yellow gold-filled Hamilton Grade 992B railroad openface pocketwatch, circa 1960's. The 50mm gold

Category

Vintage 1960s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Elgin Gold Filled R. R. Railroad Approved Pocket Watch

Sold

Elgin Gold Filled R. R. Railroad Approved Pocket Watch

By Elgin

Located in Dallas, TX

Elgin R. R. Railroad Approved Pocket Watch - 21 Jewel. Gold fileld ( 50 mm ) . White enamel single

Category

20th Century American Pocket Watches

Wartime Era Hamilton Watch Co. Railroad Grade Steel Skeleton Pocket Watch

Sold

Wartime Era Hamilton Watch Co. Railroad Grade Steel Skeleton Pocket Watch

By Hamilton

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

pocket watches for the period. Circa 1942, this American made pocket watch by Hamilton Watch Company is

Category

Vintage 1940s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Steel

Wartime Era Hamilton Railroad Grade US Military Steel Pocket Watch

Sold

Wartime Era Hamilton Railroad Grade US Military Steel Pocket Watch

By Hamilton

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Desirable collectable, Hamilton Model 4992B, GCT US WWII Military Pocket Watch. This interesting

Category

Vintage 1940s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Steel

Hamilton Steel Open Faced Railroad Grade Pocket Watch from 1942 or 1943

Sold

Hamilton Steel Open Faced Railroad Grade Pocket Watch from 1942 or 1943

By Hamilton

Located in Long Beach, CA

dial and is lever set, as all railroad watches were required to be. The watch keeps excellent time and

Category

Vintage 1940s Unknown Art Deco Pocket Watches

Hamilton Railroad 21 Jewel Grade 940 in Locomotive Gold Filled Case

Sold

W 2.09 in

Hamilton Railroad 21 Jewel Grade 940 in Locomotive Gold Filled Case

By Hamilton

Located in Boston, MA

Aston Estate Jewelry Presents: A classic Hamilton railroad pocket watch crafted in gold-filled

Category

Antique Early 1900s Edwardian Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Waltham High Grade Railroad Open Faced Gold Filled from 1880 with

Sold

Waltham High Grade Railroad Open Faced Gold Filled from 1880 with

By Waltham Watch Company

Located in Long Beach, CA

months on the movement This watch comes suppled with an original vintage Pocket Watch Chain. This

Category

Antique 1880s Swiss Pocket Watches

Antique E. Howard Series 11 Rail Road Chronometer Gold Filled Pocket Watch

Sold

Antique E. Howard Series 11 Rail Road Chronometer Gold Filled Pocket Watch

By E. Howard & Co.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

! This is one of the really great Railroad movements! Pocket watches that were to be used by conductors

Category

Early 20th Century American Artisan Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Elgin 21 Jewel B.W. Raymond Railroad Grade Pocket Watch Montgomery Dial

Sold

H 2.13 in Dm 1.94 in

Elgin 21 Jewel B.W. Raymond Railroad Grade Pocket Watch Montgomery Dial

By Elgin Clocks

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A nice running Elgin 21 jewel B.W. Raymond Railroad Grade pocket watch with a nice Montgomery Dial

Category

Vintage 1920s American Table Clocks and Desk Clocks

Waltham Vanguard Railroad Grade Pocket Watch 9561627

Sold

H 0.79 in W 0.79 in

Waltham Vanguard Railroad Grade Pocket Watch 9561627

By Waltham

Located in Surfside, FL

Waltham Vanguard premier railroad grade pocket watch. 23 Jewels with 8 adjustments. Movement

Category

20th Century Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Elgin Gilt Railroad-Style Pocket Watch circa 1927

Sold

Elgin Gilt Railroad-Style Pocket Watch circa 1927

By Elgin

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Elgin railroad-style yellow gilt pocket watch, circa 1927. 17-jewel manual-wind damaskeened

Category

20th Century American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gilt Metal

Illinois Yellow Gold-Filled Railroad-Grade Bunn Special Pocket Watch

Sold

Illinois Yellow Gold-Filled Railroad-Grade Bunn Special Pocket Watch

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Illinois yellow gold-filled railroad-grade Bunn Special pocket watch. Featuring double-sunk

Category

Vintage 1930s American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gilt Metal, Yellow Gold

Hamilton Gold Filled Railroad 950-B Pocket Watch, circa 1951

Sold

Hamilton Gold Filled Railroad 950-B Pocket Watch, circa 1951

By Hamilton

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Hamilton gold filled railroad 950-B high-grade pocket watch, 23 jewels, 6 adjustments circa 1951

Category

20th Century American Pocket Watches

Materials

Gilt Metal

Hamilton Railroad Grade 19 Jewel Calibre 996 Pocket Watch, circa 1930s

Sold

Hamilton Railroad Grade 19 Jewel Calibre 996 Pocket Watch, circa 1930s

By Hamilton

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Fine Hamilton Railroad grade 16 size pocket watch circa 1930. Large gold filled case, lever set

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

HAMILTON Railroad Pocket Watch circa 1930s

Sold

HAMILTON Railroad Pocket Watch circa 1930s

By Hamilton

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Hamilton 16-S (50mm) railroad pocket watch, circa 1930s, in magnificent and rare two-tone Art Deco

Category

Vintage 1930s American Pocket Watches

Hamilton Ball Yellow Gold Railroad Pocket Watch

Sold

W 1.78 in

Hamilton Ball Yellow Gold Railroad Pocket Watch

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Ball Hamilton Railroad pocket watch grade 999B circa 1930’s. Featuring 16 size 10K yellow gold

Category

Vintage 1930s American Modernist Pocket Watches

Illinois Bunn Special 21 Jewel 60 Hour Railroad Watch, circa 1920s

Sold

Illinois Bunn Special 21 Jewel 60 Hour Railroad Watch, circa 1920s

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Vintage 1920’s Illinois Bunn Special 60 hour railroad grade pocket watch. Featuring 16 size 10K

Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

Gold-filled

Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Open Face Pocket Watch circa 1920s

Sold

Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Open Face Pocket Watch circa 1920s

By Elgin

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Elgin Yellow Gold Filled 16-S Open Face Railroad style pocket watch circa 1920's. Featuring white

Category

20th Century American Wrist Watches

Materials

Gold-filled, Yellow Gold

People Also Browsed

Diamond Necklace Tiara

$138,000

Diamond Necklace Tiara

By Diamond Scene New York

Located in New York, NY

A MASTERPIECE! 46.75 carats of white pear, marquise and round brilliant cut diamonds set in 18k white gold. The piece can be worn as a necklace and easily converted into a tiara...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Drop Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

MUGLER Crystal Teardrop Corset Top Rhinestone Corsage

$11,660

MUGLER Crystal Teardrop Corset Top Rhinestone Corsage

By Mugler

Located in Berlin, BE

Spectacular Mugler Teardrop Corset Top. The beautiful piece showcases Thierry Mugler's signature blend of bold structure and feminine elegance. Crafted in a delicate powder blue, the...

Category

1990s Italian Corsages

Verdura Gold Utility Knife and Key with Clock and Hidden Pencil

$4,500

W 0.75 in D 0.27 in L 3.13 in

Verdura Gold Utility Knife and Key with Clock and Hidden Pencil

By Verdura

Located in New York City, NY

Rare and unusual 14K yellow gold utility tool by Verdura. It features a folding knife, a hidden pencil that slides out of the bottom, a folding key, and a clock. Outer case is ribbed...

Category

Vintage 1940s More Jewelry

Materials

14k Gold

Tiffany & Company Patek Philippe Antique Yellow Gold Pocket Watch

$5,495

Dm 1.78 in

Tiffany & Company Patek Philippe Antique Yellow Gold Pocket Watch

By Patek Philippe for Tiffany & Co.

Located in Chicago, IL

Circa 1920 Patek Philippe for Tiffany & company Pocket watch, 45 M.M. 18k Yellow Gold 4 piece case including Gold inside Dust Cover. 20 Jewel, mechanical, manual wind nickle leve...

Category

Vintage 1920s Swiss Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage A. Tillander Diamond Platinum Tiara

$46,791Sale Price|20% Off

H 1.78 in Dm 4.73 in

Vintage A. Tillander Diamond Platinum Tiara

Located in London, GB

An A. Tillander diamond platinum tiara, circa 1910. This exceptional diamond tiara by A. Tillander is beautifully handcrafted in platinum. The tiara is composed of intertwining, sc...

Category

Vintage 1910s European Retro Choker Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Dolce & Gabbana Black & Cream Lingerie Inspired Evening Gown Spring 2006 Sz 40IT

$16,200

Size: 40IT

Dolce & Gabbana Black & Cream Lingerie Inspired Evening Gown Spring 2006 Sz 40IT

By Dolce & Gabbana

Located in Saint Petersburg, FL

Dolce & Gabbana Black & Cream Lingerie Inspired Evening Gown. Spring/Summer 2006 Size 40IT

Category

Early 2000s Italian Evening Gowns

Pierre Balmain Couture Ballgown 1955 Iconic Gown Dress

$27,310

Pierre Balmain Couture Ballgown 1955 Iconic Gown Dress

By Pierre Balmain

Located in Berlin, BE

'La Robe Broderie À Ramages' PIERRE BALMAIN PARIS Made In France, ca.1955 Majestic evening gown in silk and cream satin with the most astonishing embroiderery by PIERRE BALMAIN Haut...

Category

1950s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Antique 15ct Gold Victorian Sapphire & Diamond Brooch

$1,629

Antique 15ct Gold Victorian Sapphire & Diamond Brooch

Located in Brighton, GB

Antique Gold Brooch 15ct Gold Hallmarked Birmingham 1895 Makers Mark L & L Fabulous, Victorian Oval Shaped Brooch. Set with Gorgeous Sapphires & Diamonds. Beautifully Detailed...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Brooches

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 15k Gold

Antique Art Nouveau Ladies Wrist Watch, Platinum with Diamonds

$8,179

Dm 0.56 in

Antique Art Nouveau Ladies Wrist Watch, Platinum with Diamonds

Located in Berlin, DE

Antique Art Nouveau ladies watch, platinum with diamonds. Case and strap are studded with diamonds throughout. Manual wind movement. Very good condition.

Category

Vintage 1910s Art Nouveau Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum

Edwardian Old Cut Diamond Foliate Scroll Tiara in Silver and Gold

$47,817

Edwardian Old Cut Diamond Foliate Scroll Tiara in Silver and Gold

Located in London, England

A truly elegant Edwardian old cut diamond tiara set in silver and gold, circa 1910. This beautifully handcrafted tiara is composed of a number of elegant foliate scroll motifs, com...

Category

Vintage 1910s Swedish Edwardian Vanity Items

Materials

Diamond, Gold, Silver

English Minute Repeater Chronograph 18ct Yellow Gold Keyless Lever Pocket Watch

$17,170

Dm 2.29 in

English Minute Repeater Chronograph 18ct Yellow Gold Keyless Lever Pocket Watch

Located in Mayfair, London, London

A heavy English minute repeater chronograph 18ct yellow gold keyless lever full hunter pocket watch, C1898. Dial: The white enamel with Roman numerals, outer minute track with Arabi...

Category

Antique 19th Century British Pocket Watches

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Antique 18ct Yellow Gold Stamped, Victorian Ruby & Diamond Five Stone Ring

$1,162

Antique 18ct Yellow Gold Stamped, Victorian Ruby & Diamond Five Stone Ring

Located in Brighton, GB

Antique Ruby & Diamond Ring 18ct Gold Stamped Circa 1890 Makers Mark B H Introducing a stunning 18ct gold Victorian five-stone ring, featuring alternating natural rubies and d...

Category

Antique Late 19th Century English Victorian Engagement Rings

Materials

Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Vivienne Westwood brown tartan wool and velvet mini skirt suit, fw 1997

$8,893

Size: FR 38 - UK 10 - US 6

Vivienne Westwood brown tartan wool and velvet mini skirt suit, fw 1997

By Vivienne Westwood

Located in London, GB

Vivienne Westwood brown tartan wool and velvet suit comprising: blazer jacket with leg of mutton sleeve, gold orb button fastenings at the back and velvet bodice, and matching mini s...

Category

1990s British Suits, Outfits and Ensembles

A turn of the 20th century diamond-set fringe tiara

$253,112

W 5.52 in L 2.01 in

A turn of the 20th century diamond-set fringe tiara

Located in London, GB

A turn of the 20th century diamond-set fringe tiara, the base consisting of interlocking openwork geometric scroll sections set with small old-cut diamonds estimated to weigh 3¼ cara...

Category

Early 20th Century English Edwardian Drop Necklaces

Materials

Diamond, Platinum

Art Deco Floral Filagree Sapphire and Diamond Ladies Dress Watch Sapphire Band

$3,840Sale Price|20% Off

W 0.44 in D 0.26 in L 6.5 in

Art Deco Floral Filagree Sapphire and Diamond Ladies Dress Watch Sapphire Band

Located in Miami Beach, FL

Art Deco platinum top on 18k gold watch accented with diamonds and sapphires, circa 1920. The filagree rectangular elongated 3 piece case has geometric triangles design and on the lu...

Category

Early 20th Century Art Deco Wrist Watches

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum

American Waltham Art Deco Pocket Watch, Circa 1980, Unisex, 59.42g

$3,810

American Waltham Art Deco Pocket Watch, Circa 1980, Unisex, 59.42g

By American Waltham Watch Co.

Located in Palm Desert, CA

This classic American Waltham pocket watch is a fine example of early American craftsmanship and timeless design. Weighing 59.42 grams, it has a substantial feel, reflecting the qual...

Category

Vintage 1980s Unknown Art Deco Pocket Watches

Get Updated with New Arrivals

Save "Railroad Pocket Watch", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Railroad Pocket Watch For Sale on 1stDibs

Find the exact railroad pocket watch you’re shopping for in the variety available on 1stDibs. Every item for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using Gold, Gold-filled and 18k Gold. You can easily find a 24 antique edition and 1 modern creations to choose from as well. Making the right choice when shopping for a railroad pocket watch may mean carefully reviewing examples of this item dating from different eras — you can find an early iteration of this piece from the 19th Century and a newer version made as recently as the 21st Century, both of which have proven very popular over the years. There have been many well-made iterations of the classic railroad pocket watch over the years, but those made by Elgin, Hamilton and American Waltham Watch Co. are often thought to be among the most beautiful. If you’re browsing our inventory for a railroad pocket watch, you’ll find that many are available today for men, but there are still pieces to choose from for unisex and women.

How Much is a Railroad Pocket Watch?

Prices for a railroad pocket watch can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, these accessories begin at $275 and can go as high as $55,950, while this accessory, on average, fetches $963.

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.