Looking for value of this watch- Hamilton Railway Special 950B

[BigJohnE]

Hello Watch People,

I recently acquired this watch through an inheritance and while it is cool looking and seems to work, it holds no real sentimental value to me, so I'm thinking of selling it. But I know damned near nothing about old pocket watches.

I'm pretty good Googler; but the info that I'm finding is all over the place with values ranging from around $500 up to around $1800 for this model (what few I can find).

It's the 950B - 10K Gold Filled - 23 Jewel watch.

My camera isn't the best macro in the world, but I think these pics are pretty good.

I'd appreciate any insights, knowledge, educated guesses, etc.

Thanks in advance to all.

John

 

[Hayata]

In for info!

I have my grandfather's retirement watch but I don't know if it is the 950B or what the gold content is. I wouldn't sell it for the world...But it is the Hamilton Railway Special. Says so on the front dial.

Still runs, just can't set the time...

It sounds great when it's running!

 

[jrr888]

In for info!

I have my grandfather's retirement watch but I don't know if it is the 950B or what the gold content is. I wouldn't sell it for the world...But it is the Hamilton Railway Special. Says so on the front dial.

Still runs, just can't set the time...

It sounds great when it's running!

It's prolly a lever set. Unscrew the front face bezel and look for a lever to pull up at about 1:00.

 

[Hayata]

It's prolly a lever set. Unscrew the front face bezel and look for a lever to pull up at about 1:00.

Do I need a special tool or anything to unscrew the front bezel?

 

[jrr888]

Do I need a special tool or anything to unscrew the front bezel?

Lefty loosey! Just use your hand!

 

[Hayata]

Lefty loosey! Just use your hand!

Dude, schweet!

My aunt said it ran but couldn't be set but she apparently didn't know the secret! I need to find a pocketknife/chain rig to go with it!

Here's a simple tutorial for those who don't know...

http://www.pocketwatchrepair.com/how-to/lever-set.php

Man, this is GREAT, thanks jrr888!

 

[Bagman]

What's the serial number?

 

[Bagman]

Looks like a model 10 or 16. Can't be sure by your pics. The serial number would help narrow it down. The prices you quoted seem a tad high. Pocket watches are not typically very valuable unless they have complications which this one does not. I would estimate that in good running condition at the high end it may be around $500. I'm not exactly an expert and could use more info to be sure.

 

[Hayata]

J386892

D - 62857

JW 6-08-70

C389912

Who knew the back bezel would unscrew so easily?

 

[Hayata]

J386892

D - 62857

JW 6-08-70

C389912

Who knew the back bezel would unscrew so easily?

The second and third postings were inscribed in the back bezel by hand.

These:

D - 62857

JW 6-08-70

Are these dates?

June 8th would be his retirement date.

1970, that is.

Got his watch for 50 years of service to Waverly Mills in Laurinburg NC.