Pocket Watch Collection Auction

Single-Owner Pocket Watch Collection Auction

For generations, the pocket watch was more than a way to tell time. It was an everyday tool, a symbol of craftsmanship, and for many railroad employees, an essential piece of equipment. This single-owner collection brings together more than 300 lots of American pocket watches, railroad watches, watch cases, chains, advertising pieces, and related collectibles from many of the industry's best-known makers.

Collectors will find a strong representation of Hamilton, Ball, Waltham, Elgin, Illinois, Howard, Hampden, Keystone, Rockford, Seth Thomas, Aurora, Burlington, and other respected manufacturers. Many of the watches are railroad grade, including a number of sought-after up-down models, and nearly all are reported to be in running condition.

The catalog includes a wide variety of open-face and hunter-case pocket watches in both 16-size and 18-size formats, with numerous high-grade movements featuring 21- and 23-jewel configurations. Well-known models such as the Hamilton 992 and 992B, Ball Official Standard, Illinois Bunn Special, Waltham Vanguard, Elgin B.W. Raymond, Howard Series, and other collectible grades appear throughout the sale. In addition to the watches themselves, collectors will find quality cases by makers including Keystone, Wadsworth, Fahys, Dueber, Star, and others, along with watch chains, advertising pieces, railroad memorabilia, and telegrapher-related collectibles that complement the collection.

The final portion of the auction includes a selection of vintage wristwatches by Bulova, Elgin, Helbros, and other familiar names, offering something for both pocket watch enthusiasts and vintage watch collectors alike.

As a whole, this is a well-rounded single-owner collection built around American mechanical pocket watches and railroad timepieces. Whether you're looking for a Hamilton railroad watch, a Ball Official Standard, an Illinois Bunn Special, or simply an interesting mechanical watch to add to your collection, you'll find plenty to explore throughout the catalog.

As always, every lot sells to the highest bidder with no reserves. We invite you to browse the complete catalog and discover this collection for yourself.

Starting: July 20, 2026

Ending: August 3, 2026