#216 • Waltham, massive 18K gold HC, 18S, Runic dial

Part of 261022 - "Fall Featured Auction" Horology, Jewelry & Coins - October 1 - 22 (timed auction by Jones & Horan Auctions)

High bid $9,600.00

Status: Available

Live bidding starts Oct 22, 2026 11:00 AM EDT

APW - Waltham, P.S. Bartlett, Model 1857, 11J, 18S, massive 18K gold original C & J HC with very attractive engine turning and floral engraving detail, mock crown functions only as a push for release of front latch, gold cuvette with 1872 presentation engraving, Runic style "Samuel C. Harple" marked white enamel SS dial with first and last name in place of hour numerals and middle initial within seconds-register, KWKS (key not included with this lot), gilt mvt, s#579403. Gross weight of assembled watch 120.3 dwt (187.1 g). An attractive original early 1870s era piece highlighted by its unusual dial and its behemoth of a gold hunting case. We believe the dial signature is for Samuel Christian Harple (1831-1911) who was a longtime Erie, Pennsylvania resident that was master carpenter for the Philadelphia and Erie Railroad. The case of this example is a rarity in terms of its massive weight - with the movement taken out, the case alone weighs in at 83.5 dwt (129.9 g), or a bit over 4.5 avoirdupois ounces (4.18 troy ounces). A very impressive piece, perfect for the collector that appreciates an interesting bit of 1870s era railroading history and the satisfying heft of a massive gold watch. CONDITION: Mvt: Ticking sluggishly on a full wind, overhaul recommended, fine-plus cosmetic mvt condition, some areas of haze, some scattered surface spots, fine scratches, and small abrasions; dial with hl from edge near 5 extending to upper-right rim of seconds-register, two light hls above seconds-register; excellent hour hand and seconds-hand, minute hand with some bends; case with broken front lift spring so front needs to be lifted open and will fall closed with gravity, case shows very light wear, no dents, engine turning and engraving detail with mild reduction throughout and somewhat greater degree of reduction to engine turning above front center; tight bow, mock crown shows light wear; good glass crystal. Estimate: $12,000 - $14,400 JH-79969