Pocket Timepiece Appraisal

Vintage Pocket Watch with Chain and Fob

This item is a vintage pocket watch, accompanied by a decorative chain and a fob. The watch features a round, metallic case with a slightly tarnished, warm, possibly gold-plated or brass-like finish, indicating age and use. The dial is white with clear black Arabic numerals marking the hours, and smaller black minute markers. The hands, likely blued steel, are visible, with the hour hand partially obscuring the minute hand. A small seconds sub-dial is positioned at the 6 o'clock mark, also featuring Arabic numerals and a small hand. The crystal covering the dial appears to be domed and relatively clear, though there might be some minor surface wear not distinguishable in the image. On the dial, above the center arbor, the words 'ELGIN NAT'L WATCH CO.' are visible, identifying the manufacturer as Elgin National Watch Company, a prominent American watchmaker from the late 19th to mid-20th century. The winding crown and bow are located at the 12 o'clock position, exhibiting some decorative fluting or carving. Attached to the watch's bow is a long, intricately linked chain, exhibiting a repeating pattern that appears to be etched or stamped, giving it a textural quality. The chain's finish matches that of the watch case, suggesting it is either original to the watch or a period-correct accompaniment. Connected to the chain is a 'knife-style' watch fob or charm, elongated and rectangular with a textured surface, possibly made of the same metal as the chain and watch. This ensemble suggests the item hails from the late 19th or early 20th century, a common period for such elaborate pocket watch accessories. The overall condition shows a visible patina consistent with age and regular handling, but no obvious signs of severe damage such as dents or deep scratches are discernible.