In 1928 the Yankees won their third World Series. Mickey Mouse debuted in the cartoon “Steamboat Willie,” and this Vanguard was one of 5,000 that rolled off the production line in Waltham, Massachusetts, at the Waltham Watch Company’s historic factory.

The design of this watch was prized for its steadfast adherence to the strict safety regulations required of the railroad industry. As a result, Waltham’s Vanguards were put into service as quickly as they were produced.

Railroad employees often paid for these watches on terms and used them in the rigorous day-to-day life on the rails. Little did they realize an essential piece of equipment for their jobs would someday become a highly sought-after collectible. Because these Vanguards were put into service it is rare to find one in excellent condition, and that’s what makes this such an exciting piece.

This Waltham Vanguard features the coveted Up/Down Wind Indicator, and a high-grade Keystone/JBoss 10k gold fill Mainliner case, 23 jewel movement, gorgeous dial, and railroad-style hands all in excellent condition.

When you hold this watch in your hand, you can feel the weight of history, the passage of time, and that period of bliss between two world wars. That it still exists in such excellent condition speaks to the indomitable spirit of humanity, pressing on into adversity, into time, standing as a testament to those who came before us.