pocket watch question

[bloo]

I have a Waltham WWII issue pocket watch with ORD DEPT USA OB 34121
on the back. Can anyone tell me what the OB 34121 means? I have been using it as a carry watch for a year now and it keeps perfect time . Best part is no battery and not made in China. The seller didn't know anything about it.

Ted

 

[jlrhiner]

Believe it or not, there is a military watch forum at mwf.com. They should be able to help.

 

[wraco]

I have quite a few old Waltham pocket watches. . Got hooked on them when I was given my Grandpa's 18s watch from 1903. . The oldest ones I have are key winds from 1866, 1867 and 1873. .

It's important to have them serviced and lubricated if you're going to use it full time. . just make certain the jeweller is honest and qualified. .

Rod

 

[Onomea]

Looks similar to a commercial one shown here Waltham Pocket Watches

The proprietor at that site is an honest, knowledgeable fellow, and could service your watch for you. I recently bought a pocketwatch from him.

There is also one heckuva lot of info on the net.

 

[BruceB]

'OB' is the Ordnance Department designation for a 15 to 17 jewel pocket watch, which is a high-grade movement, and the numbers are the ordnance serial number..

That's a fine watch you have, and quite a nice dial and hand set also. The markings are most likely original radium paint, but probably don't glow any more.

 

[bloo]

thank all of you for your replies. I will try some of the sites listed. I want to get it cleaned and lubed but didn't know where to go. The markings do still glow. The face is a pale green and marked 17 jewels

Ted

 

[Pilgrim]

National Association of Watch and Clock Collectors Message Board

If you have questions, they have answers.

 

[rcnixon]

Thanks for the pointers, I have temporary custody (it belongs to my daughter) of what I believe to be my father-in-law's "Elgin Nat'l. Watch Co." pocket watch. I'd like to get a value and have it repaired so I am going to contact some of the URLs and organizations in this thread.

Russ

 

[jrm53]

Go to the ihc185 forum and ask a question under the American pocket watch heading and you will find out anything you want to know and they will answer a novices question. Jeff