Art Deco Engine-Turned Sterling Silver Pocket Watch Case
Jewelry / Timepiece Accessory · Likely a European watch case manufacturer such as Dennison (UK) or a Swiss case maker. Identification depends on interior hallmarks.
Pattern: Sunburst Radiating Engine-Turned Line Pattern
Type
Jewelry / Timepiece Accessory
Maker
Likely a European watch case manufacturer such as Dennison (UK) or a Swiss case maker. Identification depends on interior hallmarks.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925) or 800 Silver; typically features a base metal internal movement and non-silver glass/crystal.
Dimensions
Approximately 45mm to 50mm in diameter; case weight approximately 15-25 grams of silver excluding movement.
Description
An elegant example of Art Deco silverwork, this pocket watch case features a sophisticated engine-turned sunburst pattern that draws the eye to an unengraved oval cartouche. The radiating lines provide a tactile, shimmering effect when rotated under light, typical of the high-quality personal accessories of the interwar period.
Key Features
Distinctive radiating guilloche pattern and the unmonogrammed central cartouche, which is highly desirable for modern personalization.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925) or 800 Silver; typically features a base metal internal movement and non-silver glass/crystal.
Finish & Decoration
Engine-turned (guilloché) sunburst radiating from an offset oval cartouche with a polished field; mirror polish finish on smooth areas.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Internal stamps likely include purity marks (Sterling / 925 / 0.800) and Swiss grouse or British assay marks inside the back cover.
Construction Details
Machine-lathed engine turning on a die-struck or spun silver shell with a hinged case back and integrated stem housing.
Functional Features
Hinged back cover, thumb lip for opening, crown and bow for winding and suspension, internal movement spacers.
Handle & Grip Details
Silver bow (ring) attached to a fluted onion-style crown for manual winding and time setting.
Craftsmanship Details
High-quality industrial craftsmanship with perfect radial symmetry and a secure, tight-fitting snap closure.
Authentication Indicators
Symmetry of the engine-turning and precise fit of the case hinge; hallmarks should be found inside the dust cover.
Origin & Manufacturing
Europe, most likely Switzerland or England, utilizing precision industrial silversmithing techniques.
Era & Period
Art Deco (1920-1940) characterized by geometric precision and radiating line motifs.
Age Estimate
Circa 1925-1935 based on the style of the sunburst engine-turning and the crown shape.
Cultural Significance
Represents the transition of the pocket watch from a purely functional tool to a piece of jewelry reflecting the wearer's taste in modern art and industrial design.
Condition Notes
Good overall; visible light surface scratches (swirls) and minor oxidation. No visible deep dents or hinge failure.
Value Estimate
$150 - $450 USD depending on the movement quality inside and the specific manufacturer marks.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid chemical dips that may seep into the movement; store in a dry environment.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. plain polished cases; Waltham gold-filled cases; Elgin Niello-work silver cases.
Interesting Facts
Engine turning was often done on dedicated lathes called rose engines, which allowed for microscopic precision in silver decoration.