Pocket Watch Database

Illinois Grade 104

Grade 104 is a 15j Hunting watch maufacturered by Illinois. The size 18s, Model 2 movement features a nickel finish and is adjustedtemperature. Illinois introduced this particular grade to the market 1883. During the time the watch was manufactured, it would have qualified for railroad service and is considered to be railroad grade. Each movement was fitted at the factory with a double-sunk dial.

Grade 104 Movement Characteristics

  • Size18s
  • Jewels15j
  • ConfigurationHunting
  • FinishNickel
  • Model2 or 3
  • SettingLever
  • AdjustedYes
  • Railroad GradeYes

Grade 104 Production Info

  • Total Production500
  • Number of Runs3
  • Introduced1883
  • Production Years1883-1883
  • First Serial500,001
  • Last Serial500,500
  • Largest Run300
  • Smallest Run100
  • Most Common Run100

Research Notes

With an estimated total production of 500 and fine finish, the Illinois Grade 104 is one of the most collectible Illinois movements from the pre-1890 era.

The grade was produced as an 18-Size Model 3 Openface movement with 17 Jewels and a Model 2 Hunting movement with 15 Jewels.

The 1882 S.F. Myers & Co. catalog describes the grade:
"No. 104, 15 jewels, expansion balance, 4 pairs, Nickel, adjusted to heat and cold, patent regulator, D.S. Dial. $36.98."

Despite being advertised as a 15-Jewel movement, the jeweled 5th pinion on the Model 3 variation results in a 17-Jewel movement rather than 15.

One of the primary differences between the Grade 105 and Grade 104 is the 105 features gold settings while the 104 is fitted with composition settings.