The Bunn 60-hour model was unique among American watchmakers of the day. Other makers had tried to design and build 60-hour versions of their railroad standard watches, but only Illinois succeeded. I suspect the 60-hour model was a prime reason that Hamilton acquired Illinois at about the time yours was built. Hamilton continued to build the 60-hour model as an Illinois, after the merger.
You may have already discovered this website and the information pertaining to your Illinois.
https://pocketwatchdatabase.com/search/result/illinois/4960011
I have checked out the Meggers & Ehrhardt “bible” (otherwise known as the “blue book”) regarding your s# 4,960,011. I don’t know of any reference that specifically identifies by serial number, the first Illinois watch produced by Hamilton after they acquired Illinois in 1928. But the generally agreed upon s# is considered to be s# 5,000,00, or thereabouts. Yours was likely produced by Illinois in Springfield, Ill circa 1927.
The “blue book” by Meggers & Ehrhardt is the best Illinois reference, in my opinion. It wouldn’t surprise me if the reference I posted, was compiled out of the blue book. There is a wealth of information in that book, about the company going all the way back to its founding. I have your watch’s twin, identical in every respect, produced about one year earlier than yours. These aren’t rare, but very collectible. Best mine ever did (right after a thorough service) was 61 hours. Most railroad approved watches of that era were capable of running just over 48 hours, in case the owner forgot to wind it after a 24-hour run. The 60-hour Bunn Special made it to 2 1/2 days.
I need to send my bezel to have a crystal put in it and then I'll send the watch for service.
It's running but not well.
I can't wait to get this beauty back!
Send me the precise metric diameter of the bezel where the crystal will sit. A metric digital caliper works best, but ZERO it before you start. And make certain the measurement is exactly 180° across the bezel. I might have a glass (not plastic) crystal for you. As to having the Illinois serviced. Ask for recommendations here on the MB for someone who specializes in such antique watches. They are beyond 90% of those in the trade of repairing watches today.
Send me the precise metric diameter of the bezel where the crystal will sit. A metric digital caliper works best, but ZERO it before you start. And make certain the measurement is exactly 180° across the bezel. I might have a glass (not plastic) crystal for you. As to having the Illinois serviced. Ask for recommendations here on the MB for someone who specializes in such antique watches. They are beyond 90% of those in the trade of repairing watches today.
At the time I didn't have any idea how nice a find that was. I got a quick lesson after posting pictures on a FB page I belong to dedicated to vintage watches.
Some movements are just so beautiful😎 and the dial is also.............
My Patek Philippe pocket watch from 1909
Or, more to the point does anyone know what chain would be correct?
I know I could look on eBay but I wouldn't know which chain would be correct and which ones wouldn't be.
That brings me to another question, did these watches come with chains or did one purchase a watch and chain separately?
Did the watch manufacturers make chains for their watches or were chains made by 3rd party companies?
