The Pocket Watch Database has compiled data covering the major American pocket watch manufacturers and created an easy way to find information using the serial number on the watch movement. Here are a few tips to find information about your pocket watch:
Always input the serial number from the pocket watch movement (the "mechanism" of the watch).
Never use the serial number from the case or any other part.
Always select the correct manufacturer, which is usually stamped on the watch movement or dial.
If the manufacturer is not listed on the site, you may have a "private label" watch or it may not be American-made.
If the serial number includes a letter, enter it along with the number when using the lookup feature.
Many pocket watch case backs screw off. Others may require a dull wide blade to pry or pop the cover. Be careful not to scratch or damage the movement.
Consider uploading images of your watch by creating a collection account on the website. This is compeltely free and assists in promoting research in American horology.
Understand that many companies did not keep accurate or complete records. As a result, information displayed on this site may have inaccuracies. This is to be expected, and we have included an option to report inaccurate information on the result pages so the database can be continually improved.
Need to replace a watch crystal? Use our new crystal size guide to find the proper fit.
Illinois Pocket Watch Regulators
These are known regulators used on Illinois watch movements. The regulator is used to adjust the balance wheel's rate of oscillation in order to improve accuracy of the watch. Several varieties of watch regulators were used in movement designs, most of which were patented, often called "Patent Regulators." The best regulators offer extreme precision while adjusting the rate of oscillation. A patent regulator was often an indicator of quality.
