Baylor Watch Co. 17 Jewels Mechanical Pocket Watch Movement
Watch - Pocket Watch Movement · Yellow gilt finish applied to brass movement bridges
Purity: Unspecified gold-plated or base metal movement component with gilt finishing
Type
Watch - Pocket Watch Movement
Purity
Unspecified gold-plated or base metal movement component with gilt finishing
Gold Type
Yellow gilt finish applied to brass movement bridges
Weight
Estimated movement weight of 20 to 40 grams
Description
An exquisite vintage Swiss mechanical watch movement by Baylor Watch Co., featuring a 17-jewel escapement, decorative gilt damaskeening on the bridges, and polished steel wheels. This interior component showcases mid-century watchmaking craftsmanship.
Key Features
17 jewel count, distinct Baylor Watch Co. signature stamp, Swiss provenance, highly decorated gilt bridge plates with perlage texturing
Color & Finish
Yellow gilt textured perlage or damaskeening finish on bridges with high-polish steel gears
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped 'SWISS', 'BAYLOR WATCH CO', and 'SEVENTEEN 17 JEWELS'
Dimensions Estimate
Standard vintage pocket watch movement diameter of approximately 38mm to 42mm
Gemstones & Inlays
Synthetic ruby watch jewels functioning as pivot bearings
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable to internal watch movement
Chain & Links
Not applicable; internal mechanical gears and escapement assembly
Craftsmanship Details
Traditional Swiss mechanical construction featuring machine-engraved damaskeening patterns, ruby jewel chatons, and precision-cut gear teeth
Authentication Indicators
Clear factory stampings ('SWISS', 'BAYLOR WATCH CO'), proper jewel placement, and standard Swiss mechanical architecture
Origin & Maker
Baylor Watch Co., Swiss Made
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century / Vintage Era (circa 1950s-1970s)
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1975 based on styling, font, and movement architecture
Cultural Significance
Represents the era of accessible Swiss mechanical timepieces before the quartz revolution transformed the watch industry
Condition Notes
Fair to Good vintage condition. Movement appears intact with visible jewel bearings and gears, though functionality and service history are unknown.
Value Estimate
Collector or parts value estimated between $30 to $100 depending on working condition and gold scrap value of associated casing
Care & Maintenance
Requires professional watchmaker servicing, lubrication, and protection from moisture and dust if housed in a display case
Similar Items
Other vintage private-label Swiss pocket watches and movements from brands like Elgin, Bulova, or Waltham using generic Swiss ébauches
Interesting Facts
Baylor Watch Co. was famously associated as a private-label brand distributed by Zales Jewelers in the United States during the mid-20th century, utilizing reliable Swiss movements.