Glossary · Case & Dial
Montgomery dial
A minute-marked dial numbered for every minute, associated with American railroad use.
Explanation
The Montgomery dial numbers every minute around the edge, with the five-minute figures in red or emphasised, so a conductor could read elapsed minutes instantly. Named for railroad watch inspector Henry S. Montgomery, it was adopted or required by several American railroads in the early twentieth century (exact dates vary by line). Original Montgomery dials in good condition are sought after.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Montgomery dial”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Pocket watch
Elgin Veritas 18-Size 23-Jewel Railroad Grade Pocket Watch
“This is an American railroad-grade pocket watch made by Elgin, dating to circa 1903. The source reports that the piece is powered by an 18-size, grade 214, model 8 nickel three-…”
Pocket watch
Elgin Veritas 18s 23J railroad grade pocket watch
“This is an Elgin 18-size Veritas railroad-grade open-face pocket watch dating to circa 1905, according to the dealer. The movement is reported as a nickel three-quarter plate gr…”
Pocket watch
Hamilton 992B Montgomery Dial Railroad Pocket Watch
“Hamilton 992B Montgomery Dial Railroad Pocket Watch”
Pocket watch
Hampden Railway 16-size 19-jewel pocket watch
“This is an open-face railroad grade pocket watch attributed to the Hampden Watch Company, dating to circa 1915. According to the seller, it features a size 16 nickel bridge move…”