Today, also (for a change), a pocket watch. This 1908 model 21-jewel, 16-size Waltham Crescent Street. This watch served for approx. 45 years in the bib overalls of a Canadian Pacific Railway employee who began his career with the railroad in 1917, as an engine wiper. Progressed to apprentice fireman in 1918 at which time he needed a railroad standard watch. This is it. He became an engineer in 1938, and used this watch until he retired circa 1962. It had been serviced 33 times by the same watch inspector over those years, twice by someone else, and once by me. It had been in sick bay for several years, requiring a replacement setting lever. A member of the local railroad watch collecting community came to my rescue, with the part I needed. Replaced the lever today. While at it, I went to my stash and found a NOS glass crystal to replace a plastic one. Good to wear it again. Some might consider it rather homely, but such watches were not for decoration. They were a tool. I have met the family, and they provided me with archival material which contributes to making this an interesting watch. At least, to me.
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