Waltham - Waltham mass Chronograph - 3038276 - 1850-1900

Rare American Waltham Chronograph Pocket Watch – Gold-Filled Case – ca. 1886 – Excellent Condition
Maker: American Waltham Watch Co.
Movement No.: 3038276
Case No.: 204687 (C.W.C.Co – Crescent Watch Case Company)
Origin: Waltham, Massachusetts, USA
Circa: 1886
Description
A rare and exquisite American Waltham chronograph pocket watch, crafted around 1886, showcasing the mechanical ingenuity and precision that made Waltham one of the most respected watchmakers of the 19th century.
This piece features a chronograph complication — an uncommon and collectible feature for Waltham watches of this era — operated via the crown pusher, allowing measurement of elapsed time. The mechanism functions smoothly and demonstrates the fine engineering standards of Waltham’s high-grade movements.
The white enamel dial is elegantly signed “Am. Watch Co. – Waltham” and displays Roman numerals, fine blued steel spade hands, and a subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o’clock. The chronograph seconds hand resets precisely to zero, reflecting the watch’s precise construction and condition.
The movement is beautifully finished, marked A.W.Co – Waltham, Mass., and bears the patent date Sept. 28, 1880, along with serial number 3038276, dating it to approximately 1886. The intricate gear train, column wheel, and jewel settings highlight Waltham’s mastery of complex horology.
The gold-filled case, made by Crescent Watch Case Co. (C.W.C.Co), bears the company’s star and crescent trademark and matching serial number 204687 on both lids, confirming originality. The case retains its rich golden tone, tight hinges, and clean interior — showing only light, age-consistent wear.
Specifications
Manufacturer: American Waltham Watch Co.
Model: Chronograph pocket watch
Movement: Manual wind, jewelled chronograph mechanism
Serial number: 3037823 (circa 1886)
Case: Gold-filled, Crescent Watch Case Co. (C.W.C.Co)
Case number: 94431
Dial: White enamel with Roman numerals, subsidiary seconds, and central chronograph seconds hand
Hands: Blued steel
Diameter: Approx. 52 mm (without crown)
Condition: Excellent antique condition – working and clean – minor signs of age consistent with use
Includes: Transparent display stand (as shown in photos)
Remarks
An exceptionally rare American Waltham chronograph pocket watch — combining refined aesthetics, mechanical complexity, and historical importance.
Waltham chronographs are scarce and highly prized by collectors for their advanced engineering and limited production. This example, with its beautifully preserved gold-filled Crescent case and finely crafted movement, is a remarkable survivor from the golden age of American watchmaking.
A distinguished addition to any fine watch collection.

Shipped assurance Register mail