The Art of American Horology Part ll,...

Roosevelt Hotel, Madison Avenue @ 45th Street, Dec 04, 2002

LOT 728

Waltham Watch Co., Patrician, No. 18028386, circa 1910.Fine and unusual, 14K two-tone gold, keyless, pendant watch and a desk clock with cigar cutter.

USD 1,800 - 2,300

Sold: USD 1,955

C. Three-body, by H.W. Matalene, No. 3518, rectangular, decorated with alternating white and yellow gold stripes, double hinged, the back cover, when opened, works as an easel, lower part with opening for a cigar cut by a gold guillotine sliding in the band, gold patented bolt at 3 o'clock for setting. D. Frost and silver with champlevé Arabic numerals, outer minute divisions. Blued steel "Louis XV" hands. M. 9 ligne, nickel, 17 jewels, the top ones in gold settings, straight-line lever escapemet, cut bimetallic compensation balance, blued steel Breguet balance spring.Signed on the movement, case engraved "Pat. Apr 16. 12".Dim. 56x30 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3 - 01

Notes

This is a very rare and interesting watch on account of the cigar-cutter and its casemaker.Matalene was one of several smaller gold and platinum case makers in the New York area in the early part of the century. He began making cases in 1909, and continued through the middle of the 1920's. He patented a very clever setting mechanism (found in this watch), as well as 14 other inventions and designs. Matalene also made round watches as lady's pendant watches (illustrated in his other patent), wristwatches, and pocket watches with a standard crown and bow. All of his cases were fitted wih Waltham movements, from 9-ligne to 14-size. He did not sign his cases, however his style is difficult to miss.We thank Jerry Treimanmember for sharing his thoughts on this present watch.For the patent, see at the back of the catalogue.