Pocket Watch Database
Initial Marking: MB
Location: Boston, Mass.
Years of Operation: 1861-c.1898
Specialized in Gold Cases.
Specialty: Gold and Silver Cases, Case Repair
Identification: Cases manufactured by Margot Bros. can easily be identified by the embossed "MB" mark appearing within a shape like an open book. Some cases are additionally marked with symbols like a lion or the karat indicator within a shield. Some jeweler-labeled cases were also produced by the company, such as those provided for E. Howard movements. These cases are generally still marked with the familiar "MB" accompanying other marks. Some cases feature a large oval mark with the karat indicator, very similar to the mark used on cases manufactured by Waltham. Some cases are additionally marked "E.F.M.," presummably for Eugene F. Margot. Patented case designs are represented in a small number of cases by Margot Bros., typically marked with the patent date.
Collectibility: Margot Bros. cases are somewhat uncommon compared to the larger gold case manufactures such as Brooklyn. Cases are typically characterized by fine engraving, and the intrinsic metal value makes them desirable by collectors. The patented designs by Margot Bros. are represented in a small number of cases, typically marked with the patent number. These patented case designs are slightly more collectible than the standard Margot Bros. cases.
According to Crossman, the Margot Bros. company was organized in 1861.
Advertisements described the company as specializing in "watch case repairing, springing, re-engine turning, engraving, polishing, etc."
Margot Bros. moved from their location at 23 Water St. in Boson to 11 Franklin St. in 1892.
An advertisement published in the December 28, 1899 issued of The Boston Globe describes "a watch repairing outfit for sale; genuine bargain" at 11 Franklin St. This indicates the Margot Bros. business was discontinued by this time. The last advertisement published by the company for services was around 1895.