1897 HAMILTON Pocket Watch 18s Openface Grade 930 16 Jewels Gold Filled Case with Chain & Fob

Watch Overview

This distinguished Hamilton pocket watch, dated from 1897, is a well-preserved example of early American watchmaking. It features a yellow gold-filled open-face case with engraved details and a double-hinged back, accompanied by a chain and fob.

It is powered by Hamilton’s Grade 930 manual-winding movement, Model 1, Class 3, with 16 jewels, lever setting, and a small seconds sub-dial. This movement was part of a limited production run of approximately 500 pieces and a total grade production of just over 4,000.

The white enamel dial displays black Arabic numerals, a railroad-style minute track, and a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock. The dial is clear and easy to read, complementing the engraved case design. The 57mm case is finely engraved, double-hinged with inner and outer covers, and comes with its original chain and fob—adding both completeness and charm to the presentation.

The watch has been fully inspected and authenticated. It is in good condition with light wear consistent with age, running well, and ready to use or add to a collection.

Product Details

General Specifications

• Brand: Hamilton
• Type: Pocket Watch
• Year / Era: 1897 - Vintage
• Gender: Men's
• Country of Manufacture: United States

Dial & Display

• Display: Analog
• Color: White
• Features: Arabic numerals. Sub-second. "Railroad" minute track

Movement

• Type: Manual-winding
• Jewels: 16
• Caliber: Grade 930
• Some Features:
  • Small-second hand
  • Model 1
  • Class 3
  • Run quantity 500
  • Grade/Model total production 4,200
  • Size 18s
  • Lever-set
  • Movement SN 26231

Case & Band

• Material: Yellow Gold Filled
• Case Shape: Round
• Bezel: Engraved. Snap
• Back: Screw-back. Double-hinged back (cuvette)(inner and outer cover)
• Crown: Lever-set
• Band: -
• Water Resistance: -
• Case Back Markings: Warranted 20 Years. 745054 - C.W.C.CO Trade Mark
• Closure: Open face
• Other Info: Beautifully engraved case. It comes with chain and Fob (28cm long)

Case Measurements (mm)

• Case Size: 57
• Case Diameter w/Crown: 69.8
• Case Thickness: 18.8

Additional Info

• Box & Papers: NO
• Condition: The watch is in good condition, some signs of wear consistent with its age and use, a solid case, bezel and beautiful dial. The pocket watch holder is not included in the purchase.
• Extras: This timepiece has been fully inspected and authenticated by our in-house watchmaker, confirming that it runs accurately. It is ready to wear and enjoy.

History & Legacy of Hamilton

Founded in 1892 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, Hamilton Watch Company has built a lasting legacy as one of America's most iconic watchmakers. Originally specializing in pocket watches, Hamilton quickly gained a reputation for precision and reliability—qualities that led to their selection as a key supplier of timepieces for the U.S. military during World War I. As wristwatches grew in popularity throughout the 1920s, Hamilton adapted, producing stylish and functional models that marked the beginning of their shift toward innovation. In 1957, they introduced the Ventura, the world’s first electric watch, which achieved pop culture fame when worn by Elvis Presley. Hamilton was also the official timekeeper for the first U.S. airmail service in 1918 and played a key role in aviation and space history—its instruments were even present in the cockpit during America’s first spacewalk in 1965.

About Second Hand Horology

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature:

Professional, unedited photography and clear, transparent descriptions. Every watch is thoroughly inspected and securely packaged to ensure a confident, seamless buying experience.

We also warmly invite you to visit our physical shop and explore the collection in person.

Contact Us

We appreciate you checking out our listing! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, offers, or just to talk watches — we love what we do and enjoy connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

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