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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Pocket watch

Pocket watch by Record Watch Co.

Partially verified

This pocket watch, held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam (accession number BK-1980-180), is dated to 1888. The watch is constructed primarily of silver with a gilded dial. The exterior of the case features distinct decorative black enamelled bands. The dial displays the signature of the "Record Watch Co. Geneve." The overall dimensions of the object are recorded as 4.7 cm in diameter, with a height of 7.4 cm, a width of 4.7 cm, and a depth of 1.1 cm. The watch includes a pendant and bow assembly at the top for attachment to a chain. The combination of the silver base and the gilded surface finish provides a specific contrast in material appearance, while the monochromatic enamelling on the case adds a graphic geometric element to the outer profile of the horological instrument.

Front view of the pocket watch showing the dial, hands, and case decoration.
Front view of the pocket watch showing the dial, hands, and case decoration. — Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Pocket watch · Pocket watch
Maker / attribution
Record Watch Co.
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
BK-1980-180
Source-reported date
1888
Source-reported place
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

Case and External Features

The watch case is manufactured from silver and features a notable decorative treatment consisting of black enamelled bands. These bands are arranged in a repeating pattern around the perimeter of the case, creating a contrast against the metal surface. The watch is equipped with a pendant and bow at the 12 o'clock position, which houses the winding crown.

The overall geometry of the object is circular, with a diameter of 4.7 cm. The total height of the piece, including the bow and pendant, is 7.4 cm, while the depth of the case is 1.1 cm. These measurements define the profile of the watch as a standard pocket-sized instrument.

Evidence for this section
  • “The outer case is decorated with black enamelled bands.”
  • “diameter 4.7 cm x height 7.4 x width 4.7 x depth 1.1”

Dial and Signature

The dial of the watch is finished in a gilded tone, providing a metallic surface that complements the silver case. The signature "RECORD WATCH Co GENEVE" is printed on the upper half of the dial. The numerals and indices are designed for legibility against the gilded background.

The dial incorporates a subsidiary seconds register positioned at the bottom of the dial, centered at the 6 o'clock mark. The minute track features additional numerals, providing a clear indication of time intervals.

Evidence for this section
  • “Watch of silver with gilded dial.”

Provenance and Documentation

This watch is part of the permanent collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, where it is catalogued under the object number BK-1980-180. The museum record provides the technical details of the watch, including its dimensions and material composition. The Rijksmuseum identifies this item as an example of historical jewellery and horological craft.

The record indicates that the museum holds the object as part of its wider collection of historical artifacts. The information provided reflects the museum's internal documentation regarding the object's materials and physical state as of the time of cataloguing.

Evidence for this section
  • “The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, holds this object as BK-1980-180”
  • “Museum classification jewellery · wrist watch”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific movement caliber housed within the BK-1980-180 case?
  • Does the 1888 dating align with the founding history of the Record Watch Co. in Geneva?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Pocket watch by Record Watch Co.
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Museum NumberBK-1980-180“BK-1980-180”
MaterialSilver and gilding“material recorded as gilding (material), silver (metal)”
Case DecorationBlack enamelled bands“The outer case is decorated with black enamelled bands.”
Dimensions4.7 cm diameter“diameter 4.7 cm”

Visible details

  • The dial is signed 'RECORD WATCH Co GENEVE'
  • The case bezel and back are decorated with an alternating black and silver enamel band pattern
  • The watch includes an integrated pendant, bow, and crown assembly
  • A small subsidiary seconds dial is located at the 6 o'clock position

Research qualifications

  • The exact horological specifications and movement type remain unverified
  • Attribution to a specific production context is subject to further research

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

Consulted source

Watch, 1888

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 8cfce6cd97

Terms in this record

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

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