Waltham - 210981 - 1900-1949

Waltham U.S.A. – Traveler – Gold Plated Pocket Watch – 1940s

Classic American Pocket Watch with Elegant Roman Dial

Offered for auction is a beautiful and authentic Waltham U.S.A. pocket watch, dating from the 1940s, representing the long-standing American tradition of precise and reliable watchmaking.

The American Waltham Watch Company was one of the most important and historic watch manufacturers in the United States. Founded in 1850, Waltham became a pioneer in industrialized watch production and supplied timepieces for railroads, military personnel, and civilians alike. The “Traveler” model reflects the brand’s commitment to quality and timeless design.

Technical Details:

Brand: Waltham U.S.A.
Model: Traveler
Era: 1940s
Case Material: Gold plated case
Case Diameter: 50 mm (excluding crown)
Crystal: Acrylic crystal
Dial: White dial with Roman numerals
Movement: Mechanical Waltham movement
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Small Seconds
Water Resistance: Untested
Condition: Grade B – signs of use consistent with age
Box: Generic box included

The 50 mm gold-plated case offers a strong and classic pocket presence. The warm tone of the case shows honest wear and light surface marks consistent with age. The front cover (hunter style) opens smoothly; however, it does not snap closed quickly and needs to be pressed slightly more firmly to secure. This is a minor issue that can be easily adjusted by a professional watchmaker.

Inside the back cover, the engraving reads:

“English Make – This Case Guaranteed To Wear 10 Years”

This inscription is typical for gold-filled or gold-plated cases of the period and adds historical authenticity. The internal reference number is also visible.

The dial is clean white with elegant black Roman numerals and a traditional railroad minute track around the perimeter. The “Waltham U.S.A.” signature is placed beneath 12 o’clock in classic script. A recessed small seconds subdial is positioned at 6 o’clock, enhancing the balanced and traditional layout.

The blued-style hands contrast beautifully against the white dial, offering excellent legibility and period-correct aesthetics.

The mechanical Waltham movement inside is signed:

“A.W.W. Co. – Waltham, U.S.A. – Traveler”

The movement displays attractive finishing and visible gearing typical of mid-20th-century American watchmaking, reflecting solid craftsmanship and reliability.

Condition:

Graded B, the watch shows visible signs of wear consistent with its age, including light scratches and patina on the case. The dial remains clean and attractive. The front lid requires firmer pressure to close properly, a common age-related adjustment that can be corrected by a watchmaker.

Story & Heritage:

In the 1940s, pocket watches were still widely used, particularly by gentlemen who valued tradition and precision. Waltham watches accompanied railway workers, businessmen, and travelers across America and beyond. The “Traveler” name perfectly captures the spirit of an era defined by movement, progress, and craftsmanship.

This piece represents not just a timekeeper, but a tangible fragment of American horological history — a watch that has already lived decades and continues to tell its story.

A refined and historically significant Waltham pocket watch, ideal for collectors of American horology or enthusiasts of classic mechanical timepieces.

The watch will be carefully packed and shipped insured.

Express Delivery Via UPS Express
Internal Reference Number - FOR 28