Newest Addition to the Digital Archive: 1903 A.C. Becken Illustrated Catalog
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Studying original wholesale catalogs remains one of the most effective ways to research the products offered by American Watch companies. Large wholesalers distributed catalogs to retailers showcasing an assortment of items available for purchase.
Albert Charles Becken started in the industry as a jobber in St. Paul, Minnesota, around 1887. Becken was met with immediate success and moved to a larger location after only a year in business. By 1892, Becken had moved his thriving business to Chicago to establish a large wholesale business. The first illustrated catalog issued by the company arrived in November 1892, forging the path for annual catalogs from the company for many decades to come.
The 1903 A.C. Becken Catalog catalog features movements offered by Paillard Non-Magnetic Watch Co. (made by Illinois), Elgin, Waltham, Illinois, Rockford, Hampden, Seth Thomas, New York Standard, Trenton, Various Special Private Labels (The Grant, The Logan, Lady Martha, Lincoln Park, Calumet, The Lincoln, etc.), Columbus, and Swiss Imitation American.
During digitization, we also imaged the entire section of pocket watch cases offered at the time.
This resource will provide a glimpse into the watch world nearly 125 years ago. View the Catalog Online. Enjoy!
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