Large W.W.I British Military WILLIAMSON Pocket Watch. c.1914

Large W.W.I British Military WILLIAMSON Pocket Watch. c.1914

Original W.W.I. period, British military issue pocket watch made by H. Williamson Ltd., London. Dating from around 1914.

Large, bulbous, solid nickel case with screw down back and bezel. Signed inside back, "Dennison Watch Case Co", "Made in England". Military markings on outside of back, War Department arrow and serial no. "97324F". Same number also repeated on side of central portion of case (as well as on the dial). Fitted with bevelled glass crystal (good condition - some very light wear). Case width : 58mm. Case condition : 80% (a few minor marks).

Black dial with subsidiary seconds. Luminous numerals and spade hands. Luminous paint no longer active. Signed, "H.Williamson Ltd., London", "97324F". Dial condition : 88%.

Gilt 7 jewel, English made movement. Signed on back plate (under dial) "H.Williamson Ltd., London". Marked, "7 Jewels". Bimetallic compensation balance wheel. Movement condition (appearance) : 90%. Recently serviced. Time keeping : good.

H. Williamson Ltd was founded by the Londoner, Henry Williamson in 1892 and started life as a wholesalers of jet jewellery. In 1895 they took over the Errington Watch Co of Coventry, which at one point operated the largest watch factory in the country, employing 500. In 1899 Williamson also purchased two Swiss watch making businesses; Suter & Co (Buren) and the watch factory of Albert Mondandon at Chaux de Fonds.

The business thrived with large government contracts and during W.W.I. the company produced both wrist and pocket watches for the British War Department.

Inventory No. 410

-----------------------------------------------------------