Pocket Watch Database

Rockford Grade 87


Photo Contributed By jerrym107
Grade 87 is a 15j Openface watch maufacturered by Rockford. The size 18s, Model 7 movement features a twotone finish and is adjusted. Each movement was fitted at the factory with a double-sunk dial.

Grade 87 Movement Characteristics

  • Size18s
  • Jewels15j
  • ConfigurationOpenface
  • FinishTwo-Tone
  • Model7
  • SettingLever
  • AdjustedYes

Grade 87 Production Info

  • Total Production5,500
  • Number of Runs8
  • Production Years1888-1891
  • First Serial310,001
  • Last Serial376,000
  • Largest Run1,000
  • Smallest Run200
  • Most Common Run500

Research Notes

According to Rockford Serial Lists, the Grade 87 was produced in 8 distinct runs. The 1896 A.C. Becken catalog describes the movement as "finely adjusted," likely indicating adjustment to temperature and positions. Standard movements are marked "R.W.Co. - Rockford Ill" in a blackletter ("Old English") style with "Adjusted" in serif caps underneath the barrel arbor, differing slightly from the Grade 84 "sister" hunting style grade. The Model 7 openface-style movement features two-tone plates, described as "damaskeened in gold on nickel." By 1899, while the Grade 84 was no longer offered in the annual A.C. Becken catalog, the Grade 87 was still available for $13.00. The majority of Grade 87 movements are fitted with the "Type 5" micrometric regulator, followed briefly by the "Type 6" regulator in the last run. Various Grade 87 movements have also been recorded with private label names. All Grade 87 movements featured the lever-set/pendant-set switching mechanism on the barrel bridge, indicated as the "LP" variant for research purposes.

Associated Grades

84