Ezra C. Fitch Rare Pantented “Beveled Invisible Centre” Watch Case Design Sold By Pforzheimer, Dreyfus & Keller: Part 2 – The Silver Case
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In my most recent article, we explored Ezra C. Fitch’s 1874 patented design, a rare clamshell watch case originally sold by Pforzheimer, Dreyfus & Keller. At the time, the only known surviving examples were 18K solid gold cases.
As a result of the article, a reader supplied images of a sterling silver case sold by Pforzheimer, Dreyfus & Keller, expanding the known production of the Fitch 1874 patented design to include multiple material variants.
The sterling silver case houses an 18-Size Appleton, Tracy & Co. movement manufactured by the American Watch Company (Waltham) [#993144], consistent with the movement pairings found with the 18K cases. This image represents the only known surviving example of the PDK sterling silver “beveled invisible centre” case.
Image Courtesy of an Anonymous Contributor
The case markings are more elaborate than those found on the 18K gold cases, marked with a P, D, and K surrounding an illustrative depiction of a set of scales. “Sterling Silver” is embossed inside an arched banner, and “Patented June 9, 1874” is included to credit Fitch for the design.
Image Courtesy of an Anonymous Contributor
As with the 18K gold cases, the PDK sterling silver cases encapsulate the center of the case like a clamshell, leaving a single seam around the perimeter of the case.
Image Courtesy of an Anonymous Contributor
We are fortunate to have readers actively engaged in sharing information and photos, as it builds a better environment for researchers and enthusiasts. I appreciate the individual who anonymously provided the images of the PDK sterling silver case to enrich our understanding further.
