Rare Illinois 114 16 Size 16 Jewel Railroad Grade Pocket Watch in 14k Gold Case

Description

The movement, manufactured by the Illinois Watch Company, is a 16 size, 16 jewel, stem wind, lever set, model 1, grade 114, railroad grade, pocket watch in hunting configuration.  It features screw set gilded jewel settings, damascened nickel finish, blued steel screws, and a Reed style micrometric regulator.  Serial number of 1219854 puts the date of production to 1894.  Records indicate that only about 5,800 grade 114 movements were produced with very few of them being marked on the movement itself as having 16 jewels.  Barrel bridge is singed with the private label "Boettinger & Walter. Baltimore, Md.".  Winding and setting both function as they should.  Movement is in overall good condition showing some discoloration to the nickel finish as well as a few light scratches to the bridges.  Watch runs very well and keeps good time.
The single sunk white enamel dial, signed "Boettinger & Walter Baltimore, Md., is in beautiful condition showing a faint hairline crack between 1 and 2 o'clock extending out from the center hole as well as some chipping around the edge between 5 and 6 o'clock.  Dial features fine black Arabic numerals and train track chapter ring.  Blued steel hands are mismatched, but are in good condition with the minute hand showing some minor oxidation towards it's tip.
The 14k yellow gold hunting case, manufactured by Roy Mfg. Co., is in excellent condition showing no significant damage.  Engraved detail across the exterior of the watch is crisp showing fantastic detail.  Case lid has been cut and an open face style crystal fitted to the bezel at some point in the past.  This modification to the case appears to have been expertly done showing a fine fit and finish.  Case lid springs open when the crown is depressed as it should and also closes securely.  Both case back lid and cuvette snap firmly shut.  All three case hinges are in excellent condition with no excess play.  Bow is tight and secure to the pendant and the crown is worn through it's ridges, but still functions.  Excluding the pendant, case measures 52.10 mm across.  Case weighs 52 grams without the movement.
A stunning and scarce watch, don't miss the opportunity to add this one to your collection.
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Thank you for your time, and happy bidding!