c.1918 Waltham Duo-Tone P.S. Bartlett with Nickel and Gilt Damaskeened Finish
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For a short time in the late 1910s, the American Waltham Watch Company produced 16-Size P.S. Bartlett and No. 620 movements with duo-tone plates – featuring an elegant gilt damaskeened finish on the bridge plates and nickel finish on the balance cock and pillar plate. Because of this beautiful duo-tone finish combination, these movements attract the eye of many collectors looking for something uncommon.
I actually have one of these and I love it! I have been convinced by many people that it is a freak mistake, and that someone swapped parts to make it a “Frankenwatch”, but now I am thinking that it is in fact quite special! Let me know if you want me to upload some photos!
Yes. I would love to see some more examples of these. Feel free to upload them to your account on the database site. Thanks!
I’m about to start a restoration of an 18s PS Bartlett Tutone. A gorgeous watch, dating back to 1902.
I think when manufacturers run specials such as this, it is to clear out unused inventory. Perhaps these were made in part using parts from a special order that was canceled after production started? Either way the two-tone movements, especially with the gilt demaskeening always look nice.