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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Tool · Pocket watch key

Early Steel Pocket Watch Key

Partially verified

This early steel pocket watch key is dated by the dealer to circa 1770 within the Georgian era. The tool features an octagonal-cornered rectangular steel body with bevelled edges, engraved on each face with an X motif composed of crossing parallel grooves. At the top, a circular suspension ring attaches via a turned collar, while the base terminates in a turned steel winding pipe specified as size 1 to 2. The source records dimensions of 32 mm in width by 14 mm in depth, noting small pit marks on the steel surface.

Steel pocket watch key with engraved X pattern, suspension ring, and turned pipe
Steel pocket watch key with engraved X pattern, suspension ring, and turned pipe — Atlam Watches via Antiques Boutique. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.antiquesboutique.com
Category
Tool · Pocket watch key
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
9.460 (AB-78593)
Catalogue / lot identifier
itm78593
Source-reported date
c. 1770
Country
Not established

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Object Form and Surface Decoration

This pocket watch key is made of steel, described by the source as having a "rectangular body with beveled sides". Directly observed, the chamfered corners give the central plaque an elongated octagonal profile. Each face of the central section is decorated with "a X engraved on each side", visible as crossing groups of parallel diagonal grooves.

Attached at the upper end is a turned stem holding a circular suspension loop for carrying or attachment. The bottom transitions into a turned tubular winding pipe, which visibly exhibits small surface pits and areas of light oxidation.

Evidence for this section
  • “rectangular body with beveled sides”
  • “a X engraved on each side”
  • “Chamfered corners creating an elongated octagonal rectangular profile”
  • “Turned tubular steel winding pipe at bottom showing small pit marks and light oxidation”

Functional Sizing and Dimensions

The object is configured as a winding key for pocket watches. The seller states that the tool features a "steel winding pipe – a size 1-2", referring to standard numbered watch key pipe sizes.

According to the listing, "The key measures 32mm wide x 14mm deep". In evaluating condition, the seller rates the piece as "in 90% mint condition – small pit marks".

Evidence for this section
  • “steel winding pipe – a size 1-2”
  • “The key measures 32mm wide x 14mm deep”
  • “The key is in 90% mint condition – small pit marks”

Dating and Documentary Limitations

The listing categorizes the piece under "Period Georgian (1714 to 1837)" and assigns a date in the title of "c1770". However, no maker signatures, workshop marks, or assay hallmarks are recorded in the source text or visible on the tool.

The approximate circa 1770 date and Georgian era designation represent dealer attributions by Atlam Watches rather than documented historical provenance. Additionally, the source description lists dimensions of 32 mm wide by 14 mm deep without clarifying whether 32 mm represents the overall length.

Evidence for this section
  • “Period Georgian (1714 to 1837)”
  • “Early Steel pocket watch key c1770”
  • “Dealer Atlam Watches”

Open research questions

  • Does the reported measurement of '32mm wide' refer to total vertical length from suspension loop to pipe tip rather than horizontal width?
  • What specific millimeter measurement corresponds to the internal square socket of the 'size 1-2' winding pipe?
  • Are any maker marks, bench marks, or stamps present on the interior rim or under magnification?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Early Steel Pocket Watch Key
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Body formRectangular body with beveled sides“rectangular body with beveled sides”
DecorationX engraved on each side“a X engraved on each side”
Winding pipe sizeSize 1-2“steel winding pipe – a size 1-2”
Dimensions32mm wide x 14mm deep“The key measures 32mm wide x 14mm deep”
Condition notes90% mint condition with small pit marks“The key is in 90% mint condition – small pit marks”
PeriodGeorgian (1714 to 1837)“Georgian (1714 to 1837)”
Dealer item code9.460 (AB-78593)“Code 9.460 (AB-78593)”
Dealer name and locationAtlam Watches, London, United Kingdom“Atlam Watches London, United Kingdom”

Visible details

  • Engraved X pattern composed of multiple diagonal parallel grooves on the central plaque
  • Chamfered corners creating an elongated octagonal rectangular profile
  • Turned upper stem fitted with a round suspension ring
  • Turned tubular steel winding pipe at bottom showing small pit marks and light oxidation

Research qualifications

  • Attribution to circa 1770 and the Georgian era relies entirely on dealer assessment
  • No maker marks, initials, or assay hallmarks are visible or noted

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

Early Steel pocket watch key c1770 in Antique Pocket Watch Keys

Reviewed 2026-10-21 · Record 97d83723a7

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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