Early History of the New York Watch Company: Part 7 – The 18-Size Full-Plate Model
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By the summer of 1871, the New York Watch Company was ready to introduce its new 18-Size Full-Plate model to the market. This model had been in development since 1870 under the skillful direction of George Hunt.
The new product line featured four grades:
- John Hancock – 7 Jewels, Steel Balance
- Theo. E. Studley – 11 Jewels, Expansion Balance
- Geo. Sam. Rice – 7 Jewels, Imitation Expansion Balance
- Chas. E. Hayward – 11 Jewels, Imitation Expansion Balance
The “John Hancock” movement, named in honor of the signer of the Declaration of Independence, also featured a facsimile of the famous signature.
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While the 3/4-plate movements were still offered, this new key-wind key-set model aligned the New York Watch Company to match the trends established by the rest of the American watch industry.
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