John Sikorski: Print may be a watercolor, watch can be repaired
Q: I purchased this print in the photograph for $5 at a garage sale. I wonder if you can tell me anything about it and whether it has any collector value. — H.K., Internet
A: The photograph is quite clear. I do not think it is a print; perhaps a watercolor. I can see people feeding doves in front of a large palatial building. In order to help you, open the back and look for notations or perhaps a signature on the front being obscured by the matting. Then I will finish the story.
Q: I have a pocket watch I am interested in finding out about. Both the back and front of the watch are hinged and can be opened. The watch when opened has two places in the back for insertion of a key. Engraved is the word “Locle” inside some scroll work. It has a porcelain face with a separate second dial at the 6 position. I know it has been in the family for at least 100 years. Anything you can tell me about its history and value will be appreciated. Also, I would like to give it to my nephew. Can it be put into working condition? — P.R., Internet
A: All pocket watches were wound with keys until the stem wind system was created in the early 19th century. Depending on the type of watch, the keys were often made of gold with beautiful enamel decoration. I will assume the keys to your watch, if you have them, are of the standard type without any decoration. Within the big category of pocket watch collecting, the fancy keys are a specific category.
On your watch, the two arbors are for time setting and winding the mainspring. The Locle area of Switzerland is famous for its watchmaking industry and is considered the birthplace of watchmaking in Switzerland.
The third cover of your watch that is over the two winding holes can be opened in order to see the movement. This is where you will find, if it is there, the name of the watch manufacturer as well as other notations. This information will have a large effect on dollar value. If the watch is either gold or silver, it will be marked inside the back case cover. To give you an opinion of value, I need a couple of good photographs and all the information on the movement.
I think it is good you plan on giving the pocket watch to your nephew. Yes, it can be put into working order condition. I suggest and recommend House of Time in Gainesville.
— John Sikorski, with more than 35 years of experience, is an Ocala-based antiques advisor, consultant and broker. Send your questions to Sikorski's Attic, c/o The Ocala Star-Banner, 2121 SW 19th Ave. Road, Ocala, FL 34471-7752, or email absantique@aol.com.
This article originally appeared on The Gainesville Sun: John Sikorski: Print may be a watercolor, watch can be repaired
