THIS IS THE February, 2001 interstatetime.com "WATCH OF THE MONTH"
THIS PAGE COULD FEATURE YOUR WATCH!!!
Every month we will pick a watch, submitted by one of our viewers, to be "Watch of the Month". "Watch of the Month" submissions should be a vintage or antique American pocket watch. They don't have to be rare or expensive, just interesting (this should give you lots of options). If you have a watch you would like to submit CLICK HERE to go to the "submission rules" page. THESE WATCHES ARE NOT FOR SALE!
GO BACK TO OUR HOME PAGE OR TO THE WATCH OF THE MONTH ARCHIVES
ILLINOIS WATCH CO. - SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS
"The Lady Olga"
Our watch of the month for February 2001 is not a typical watch of the month in any way. First, it a woman's watch, and large for a women's watch at that. Second the decoration of the case is not typical of American watches. Third, I usually pick the watch of the month based on its interest as a great mechanical time piece, and, as a watch, "The Lady Olga" is closer to great jewelry. However, when the owner of this watch, who wishes to remain anonymous, submitted it, I couldn't resist. You have to hold the watch in your hand to fully appreciate its magnificence. The hand painted lady actually looks better under magnification.
This 8 Size, grade 150, 7 jewel Illinois watch was made in 1889. The case is marked “Warranted 18 Karat Fine”, and is beautifully hand enameled with 5 faceted diamonds in the hair band and ear ring. The glass enamel dial features gold markers and a wonderful floral motif. This watch is completely original, and in mint condition. Was this a private label? Did Illinois make it for a special customer or stockholder, or was this part of a line of special, limited production ladies’ watches? We may never know. However, this has to be one of the most beautiful Illinois watches ever produced.
