Goliath!

Measuring in at a massive 51.6 mm, this giant represents the largest William Bent watch ever made.



In its day, housed in a gold or solid silver case, this would have been a hefty item to carry around.



Large pocket watches were a sign of status, wealth and power. Often referred to as a Goliath.



Can anyone explain the numbers 24 x 4? Maybe the size, but what units?

Progress

As 2014 draws to a close, I am pleased to report that 53 William Bent watches have now been located throughout the world.

Of the 53 now identified...

• the majority, are key wind and set fusee English lever movements.
• most are movement only; original gold or silver cases have too often been sold for scrap.
• some movements have been broken out of the case, causing damage to the enamel dial.
• those still housed in original cases are mainly key wind open face.
• only a few are housed in hunter cases.
• only 8 are keyless with crown wind and pin set
• a few rarities represent the age of development, rear keys, chronograph and going barrel.
• all carry the endorsement "Chronometer MAKER to the ADMIRALTY"
• one has a champleve dial.

Much of this information has been collected by watching sales across the internet.

Some details of each watch so far discovered, are now displayed in the catalogue.

Many thanks to all who have contacted me and agreed to share knowledge of this man and his work on these pages.

Much is still to be learned; if you can assist by providing any of the missing details, or if you have a watch that is not yet included, please contact me by email. I will be more than pleased to hear from you. Alternatively, you may wish to ask me a question; I am happy to attempt to provide you with an answer.

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Wishing you all a Happy New Year 2015.
Philip