American pocket watches are living history. Those of us who buy, service, sell and collect them are captivated by their unique combination of practicality and horologic significance. I bring your attention to this Illinois Watch Company circa 1928, 161A, Elinvar Type IIB 60-hour Bunn Special.

For one thing, this Bunn Special boasts the first Illinois Elinvar mainspring, a newly developed alloy for added consistency in timekeeping, making for a highly desired pocket watch. Equipped with the 21-jewels, Elinvar hairspring, 60-hour mainspring, gold gear train, gold jewel settings, double roller adjusted to temperature, and six positions all for added accuracy. A stunning example of the American pocket watch and the stellar performance the industry had achieved. 

Then, it’s 60-hour mainspring – a major innovation when most pocket watches were limited to 42 hours of continuous run time (between winds). Faced with a striking double sunk dial with heavy ink saturation. Circumnavigated by beautifully blued steel hands, the porcelain dial also features the hugely legible Arabic numerals so crucial to railway safety.

As befits a watch of this character and quality, this Bunn 161A is protected by a gorgeous Keystone/J.Boss Mainliner case. The yellow gold fill case is highlighted with coin edges and a firm bow. Still crisp and showing less than normal wear, making it as much a pleasure to palm as it is to admire.