Nov 8, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
Hamilton 992 21-jewel railroad pocket watch – 14K gold-filled case – adjusted to 5 positions – circa 1918 – collector grade.
For sale is a classic Hamilton Watch Co. 21-jewel railroad-grade pocket watch, produced circa 1918, representing one of the finest precision timepieces of the early 20th century. Hamilton was known for its commitment to accuracy, and this model—crafted during the height of American railroad watchmaking—embodies the brand’s dedication to reliability and craftsmanship.
The white enamel dial features bold black Arabic numerals, an outer minute track with red 5-minute markings, and a sub-seconds register at 6 o’clock. The dial is signed “Hamilton” and remains clean with only faint signs of age under magnification. Elegant blued steel spade hands complete its balanced, professional railroad aesthetic.
The movement is marked:
Hamilton Watch Co., Lancaster, Pa., 21 Jewels, 996, Adjusted 5 Positions, Double Roller.
It bears the serial number 1696192, dating it to approximately 1918. The 996-grade movement is a high-grade railroad-approved mechanism, featuring fine nickel damaskeening, screw-set ruby jewels, gold train wheels, and double roller safety action—all hallmarks of Hamilton’s premium engineering.
The case is a 14K gold-filled hunter-style (H.C.) design, serial 4222601, with a smooth polished finish and firm hinges. Both lids close securely and open properly. The case exhibits normal age wear with soft brassing around the edges but retains strong presentation appeal.
This example winds and sets properly; running condition is untested, and it is offered as-is.
Hamilton’s 996 and 992 21-jewel railroad watches are widely considered the pinnacle of American railroad-grade horology, valued for their durability and regulated accuracy. Comparable examples with original cases and clean dials typically trade in the $850–$1,250 range.
Given its condition, movement clarity, and complete 14K gold-filled case, this example is valued around $1,050.
Offered for sale as-is, this fine Hamilton 996 railroad pocket watch stands as a shining example of early precision engineering, perfect for both collectors and horological enthusiasts seeking a piece of American timekeeping history.
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Invoices totaling over $1500.00 must be paid by wire transfer or cashiers check.
Watch is in working, running condition but is untested for timekeeping, offered as-is.
Offered for sale as-is, this fine Hamilton 996 railroad pocket watch stands as a shining example of early precision engineering, perfect for both collectors and horological enthusiasts seeking a piece of American timekeeping history.
Winning invoices totalling over $1500.00 are to be paid by wire transfer or cashiers check.
Details:
Maker: Hamilton Watch Co., Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Grade: 996
Serial Number: 1696192
Jewels: 21
Adjustment: 5 Positions
Features: Double Roller, Railroad Grade
Case Material: 14K Gold-Filled
Case Style: Hunter Case (H.C.)
Case Serial: 4222601
Dial: White enamel with black Arabic numerals and red outer track
Hands: Blued steel spade hands
Movement: Manual wind mechanical, fine damaskeening, 21-jewel precision mechanism
Era: Circa 1918
Condition: Excellent antique condition; crisp movement; winds and sets properly; untested for timekeeping.
Shipping
Shipping & Pick-Up Information
General Policy:
Buyers are responsible for all shipping costs. Shipping information is not included in the purchase price of your item(s).
If you are the successful bidder, you may either:
Have your items shipped via Best Estate Services, Inc. in-house shipping department, or Collect your property in person during the designated local pick-up period.
For all shipping and pick-up inquiries, please contact us at:
📧 hello@bestestateservices.com
📞 (262) 799-5167
8. Shipping Details
All shipping will be handled in-house by Best Estate Services, Inc. via USPS unless otherwise arranged. A flat handling fee of $15.00 per package will be applied and added to your invoice along with the applicable USPS postage cost. Shipping and handling fees will appear as separate line items on your invoice. Packages will be shipped once payment for both the item(s) and shipping has been received and cleared. Tracking information will be provided via email once your package has been processed.
Note: For oversized or fragile items (such as large furniture, sculptures, or specialty pieces), please contact us prior to bidding to discuss available shipping options or to coordinate third-party freight service if required.
9. Local Pick-Up
All local pick-up arrangements must be made by Tuesday End of Day following the close of the auction. Local pickups are subject to a flat $5.00 handling fee. Local pick-up will take place 8 days after the close of the auction, on the following Monday between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
Important Pick-Up Rules:
No cash will be accepted at local pick-up locations. All invoices must be paid online prior to arrival.
If you are sending someone else to pick up your items, you must provide a copy of their driver’s license in advance of pick-up for authorization.
Pick-ups are by appointment only within the designated time window.
Please contact us promptly if you are unable to attend the scheduled pick-up so alternate arrangements can be discussed.
10. Storage Fees
All items must be picked up or have shipping arranged within two (2) weeks of the auction close.
Items left beyond that time will incur a storage fee of $10 per lot per day, regardless of size or value.
Thank you for participating in our auction and for choosing Best Estate Services, Inc.
We appreciate your business and look forward to serving you again.
📧 hello@bestestateservices.com
📞 (262) 799-5167
Available payment options
Thank you for bidding with Best Estate Services. The auction has now closed. Winning bidders can expect to receive an invoice for their winning lots and a separate shipping invoice within the next 48–72 hours. This invoice can be paid directly through the payment link sent to you. Please note that your winning bid invoice and shipping invoice are two separate invoices. If pickup is available for your items, you will have the option to select pickup when you receive notification from our shipping department. After selecting pickup, you will be notified of the pickup location and available pickup time window. Thank you again for participating in our auction.