c.1902 “Sol” Watch Manufactured by Waltham and Sold by R.R. Fogel & Co.
The 18-Size Model 1883 movement is prominently marked with a sunrise and the word “SOL” on the barrel bridge. “Sol” is the Latin word meaning “sun.” Rube Robert Fogel was granted registration for this trademark on June 22, 1897, claiming its use in business since August 1892. The sunrise scene is also depicted on the dial.
Most of the 18-Size “Sol” movements produced at the Waltham feature gilt plates. However, this run of nickel movements represents an uncommon variant. In addition to the “Sol” watches, R.R. Fogel & Co. also sold other familiar private labels like “Cronometro Superior” and “Cronometro Victoria.”
An advertisement published by R.R. Fogel & Co. in the November 16, 1898 issue of La Correspondencia de Puerto Rico promoted both the “Cronometro Victoria” and the “Sol” watch, complete with a facsimile of the sunrise motif.
Hello. I have a very similar watch to the one shown above. It is an American Waltham 18 size with the sunrise dial. My movement however has the name “Victoria Chronometer”. Now I do see you posted another private name as “Cronometro Victoria”. Would these two be the same? And if so why the different spelling?
Thank you in advance
John DeResto.
These were sold by the same retailer – R.R. Fogel & Co.