New York Watch Co. 18 size key wind and key set “Hampden” grade pocket watch. Very scarce and unusual looking movement with an eye catching gilt and nickel finish that was used by the New York Watch Co. on this grade and also on the “Novelty” grade. I have not disassembled this one to confirm the jewel count but watch is either a 9 or 11 jewel depending on if the plate jewels are paired under the dial. Dial is a sunk-seconds enamel with attractive double track markings in the seconds-bit, and watch is housed in an open face Dueber Silverine (nickel type metal) case. Movement serial number is 55412.
Starts running when wound but balance motion is weak and watch gained about an hour when run for a day. Good looking movement overall but has some typical mild surface spots and marks. Screw on the small gilt plate around the barrel arbor are incorrect, the originals should would have been blued but these are nickel and slightly larger in head size. Dial is superb. Case is decent looking but has some scattered dings/dents, and movement is somewhat loose in the case with a front to back rattle. Crystal is plastic.
If you are new to watch collecting, check out the NAWCC! The NAWCC (National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors) is a terrific group that has a 65 year history, a terrific online message board for collectors, and the NAWCC puts on many watch and clock shows across the country each year. I’ve been an NAWCC member since 1991 and recommend it to everyone that wants to collect watches or clocks.