This Hampden Grade John Hancock Model 4 produced in 1907 is a rare exception to the rule in the world of railroad-grade pocket watches. Typically, a railroad-grade pocket watch was to be in an open face configuration. Yet, this Hampden, housed in a hunter-style case, was not blacklisted by Webb C. Ball, the author of the railroad timekeeping standards. Things get even more interesting when you factor in this watch’s patented Ferguson Dial. Webb C. Ball adamantly rejected this style of dial for railroad grade watches, despite his name gracing some examples of the Ferguson dial. So with two strikes against it, this watch was still approved, making it a horologically and historically significant timepiece.

The 21j Hampden movement is a high-quality railroad grade movement, housed in a beautiful hunter case and faced with a rare and highly sought-after Ferguson dial. Because there were several variations of the Ferguson dial, each marked “Ferguson Dial – Patented – For [Company] Watch,” compiling a complete set proves to be an ambitious goal for a collector of Ferguson dials.

The significance of these Ferguson dials is also tied to the fact the Ferguson Dial Company focused on providing their dials as aftermarket replacements for standard or damaged dials. The political pull and influence of Louis Buck Ferguson must have been impressive for him and his company to push their way past Webb C. Ball and gain access to the railroad grade market despite Ball’s resistance.

If you’re looking for this specific dial to add to your collection of Ferguson Dials or looking for an atypical example of railroad-grade pocket watches, this timepiece will make an excellent addition to your collection. The historical and horological significance of this timepiece is astounding. Whether you want to display this watch as a cornerstone of your collection or you like the way it looks. You want to use a rare timepiece as your daily wear pocket watch. This one is a sure winner.