Glossary · Case & Dial
Damaskeening
Decorative machine-engraved patterning on American watch plates.
Explanation
Damaskeening is the decorative engine-turned patterning applied to the plates of American watch movements — swirls, waves and sunbursts cut by machine. Each factory had characteristic patterns that help identify unsigned movements. The pattern is cut into the plate, so heavy later polishing of plates can soften or remove it.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Damaskeening”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Movement
Illinois Watch Co. Grade 187 pocket watch movement no. 1569915
“This pocket watch movement was produced by the Illinois Watch Company under Grade 187, Model 4, bearing serial number 1569915 and dated to circa 1901. It is configured in the 16…”
Pocket watch
Elgin National Watch Co. Gold-Filled Pocket Watch
“This antique open-face pocket watch movement is manufactured by Elgin National Watch Co., with the source reporting a production date of circa 1925. The movement features decora…”
Movement
Manistee Watch Company movement serial number 31702
“Features wave-pattern damaskeening across nickel-finished plates and winding wheels”
Movement
Manistee Watch Company 16-size movement, serial 0028148
“Bridge plate configuration with decorative wave damaskeening and floral engraving on the balance cock.”
Pocket watch
Illinois Watch Co. Time King pocket watch, size 12s, grade 405
“Plates engraved with wavy damaskeening pattern and dark-filled text reading 'TIME KING', 'ILLINOIS SPRINGFIELD WATCH CO.', 'ADJUSTED', '17 JEWELS', and '4680162'.”
Pocket watch
Illinois Bunn Special Railroad Pocket Watch, 1923
“This is an open-face railroad pocket watch produced by the Illinois Watch Company in Springfield, Illinois, dating by serial number and source listing to 1923. The size 16 movem…”