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American Waltham Watch Co. was in operation from 1852-1957 and was an American pocket watch manufacturer. Manufacturing of Waltham watches took place at their facility in Waltham, Massachusetts.
This 1896 Waltham brings together two things that feel made for each other: our Heritage Bronze case and a two-tone American movement. Our bronze alloy contains 93 percent copper, giving it warm rose gold undertones that deepen with wear. It is a living finish that slowly patinas, and nothing pairs with that evolving character quite like a movement that already blends gold tones with silver in equal measure. The two tone plates are a showcase of late nineteenth century finishing. The base plates were finished in nickel, then selectively flashed with rich gilt to create alternating gold and silver fields that shift in the light. In our Little Rock, Arkansas workshop, we hand polished every jewel setting, gear train component, and balance element to bring back their original golden tone. All screws and steel hardware were thermally colored one by one over an open flame, using slow controlled heat to achieve deep bluing and added corrosion resistance (read more here). Because the gilt layer is thin and easily damaged during service, surviving examples with this level of definition not common. The dial brings its own layer of rarity. It is a porcelain enamel design set with red ruby jewels at each five minute interval. Black Arabic numerals are framed with refined golden motifs, and the Waltham signature rests in elegant cursive at center. The original Louis XIV hands were polished by hand to restore their bright golden tone, and the way they play off the rose golden hue of the bronze case is simply captivating.
The movement is set in a custom 40 mm conversion case crafted from solid bronze. This size offers a balanced fit on the wrist, making it one of the most versatile proportions available in any conversion. The case is built with crown and caseback gaskets, tested to 50 meters of water resistance, though removal before swimming or showering is recommended. Fully serviced and regulated, this watch is ready for years of reliable wear and appreciation.
Watch Performance
Accuracy: +/- 10 seconds per day
Amplitude: 300 degrees
Beat Error: 1.5 ms
Frequency: 18,000 (5 beats per second)
Power Reserve: 24-30 hours
Complication: Sub second hand
Watch Specifications
Manufacture: Waltham
Location: Waltham, Massachusetts
Year Manufactured: 1896
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel (excellent)
Jewels: 11 jewels
Case Diameter: 40 mm
Front Crystal: Domed sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat sapphire
Case Material: Bronze (will patina)
Lug width: 20 mm
Lug to Lug: 48 mm
Height: 13 mm
Original Case Included: No
Serial Number: 7082428
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.