Pocket Watch Database

U.S. Watch Co. (Waltham, Mass) The President

Grade The President is a 17j watch maufacturered by U.S. Watch Co. (Waltham, Mass). The size 18s, movement features a twotone finish and is adjusted to isochronism and temperature. U.S. Watch Co. (Waltham, Mass) introduced this particular grade to the market February 1894. 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.

The President Movement Characteristics

  • Size18s
  • Jewels17j
  • Configuration
  • FinishTwo-Tone
  • Model1888h or 1892
  • SettingLever
  • AdjustedYes
  • Railroad GradeYes

The President Production Info

  • Total Production800
  • Number of Runs3
  • IntroducedFebruary 1894
  • Production Years1894-1902
  • First Serial150,001
  • Last Serial150,800
  • Largest Run580
  • Smallest Run20
  • Most Common Run200

Research Notes

"Nickel" - "Extra Fine Ruby Jewels" - "Especially adapted for railway service" - Sold through John J. McGrane, NYC also advertised with the subtitle "The Peerless Railroad Watch"
"...First Quality Nickel, 18 Size, Full Plate, Stem Winding and Lever Setting. It has a Double Roller Escapement, 17 Jewels in Gold Settings, Safety Pinion, Hardened and Tempered Breguet Hairspring, Compensation Balance, Adjusted to Heat, Cold, Isochronism, and All Positions, Matheson's Patent Regulator, Double Sunk Dial, and is highly finished in all its parts. This movement is made in both Open-Face and Hunting, and is the only 18 Size Double Roller, Lever-Setting Movement on the market... The President can be had only of John J. McGrane, No. 187 Broadway, New York City, to whom all orders should be addressed." [October 1894 Ad JC]