Nov 8, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
Swiss Imperial non-magnetic pocket watch with Art Deco dial, original chain, and sterling silver Masonic charm – c. 1930s–1940s.
Description:
A refined vintage Swiss “Imperial” non-magnetic pocket watch, paired with its original chain and a sterling silver Masonic charm from the McKinley Chapter No. 102, R.A.M., Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This ensemble represents an elegant and historically significant collector’s piece, combining Swiss craftsmanship with American fraternal heritage.
The dial is a two-tone silver design with raised gold Arabic numerals and a distinctive sub-seconds dial at 6 o’clock. The center portion features a matte finish, while the outer track is subtly brushed, giving a sophisticated layered effect. The dial is signed “Imperial – Non Magnetic – Swiss.” The gilt cathedral-style hands add a touch of Art Deco charm, contrasting beautifully with the clean numerals and fine outer minute track.
The movement, though not visible in the provided images, is a manual-wind Swiss movement, typical of Imperial’s mid-20th-century production, known for reliability and precision. The non-magnetic designation indicates the use of alloys resistant to magnetization—an advanced feature in the early 20th century to protect timekeeping accuracy.
The case is a polished nickel or chromed metal, exhibiting classic round proportions with a smooth bezel and domed crystal. The crown and bow remain sturdy and well-preserved. Attached is a vintage link chain in a yellow-gold tone, ending in a sterling silver charm with detailed engraving.
The charm reads:
“McKinley Chapter No. 102 R.A.M. – Milwaukee, Wisconsin – Sterling.”
It features the Royal Arch Masonry emblem with the letters K.S.H.T.W.S.S.T., an abbreviation for a Masonic motto central to the Royal Arch degree. The charm is made of sterling silver, stamped and lightly patinated, attesting to its authenticity.
Value and Sale Information:
The Imperial Watch Company, known for its Swiss-made non-magnetic timepieces, produced reliable and stylish pocket watches from the early to mid-20th century. Their use of anti-magnetic materials appealed to professionals and tradesmen working around industrial machinery and railroads.
This example gains added collector appeal through its accompanying vintage chain and sterling silver Masonic charm, linking horology and fraternal history. Such pairings are uncommon in surviving original condition.
Comparable Imperial non-magnetic pocket watches typically range from $125 to $225, with additional value for the chain and Masonic insignia charm bringing the total auction estimate to $225–$325.
Offered for sale as-is.
A beautifully preserved Swiss Imperial non-magnetic pocket watch, elegantly paired with a vintage chain and sterling Masonic charm — a handsome ensemble that blends precision Swiss engineering with rich mid-century American Masonic tradition.
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Glass piece covering the face is not attached.
Condition: Very good; dial clean with light patina, case shows mild wear, crystal clear, chain and charm intact with natural age toning; movement not tested for operation.
Offered for sale as-is.
A beautifully preserved Swiss Imperial non-magnetic pocket watch, elegantly paired with a vintage chain and sterling Masonic charm — a handsome ensemble that blends precision Swiss engineering with rich mid-century American Masonic tradition.
Details:
Maker: Imperial Watch Co. (Swiss)
Movement Type: Manual-wind, non-magnetic balance
Jewels: Estimated 15
Dial: Two-tone silver with applied gold numerals and blued-steel hands
Subdial: Seconds at 6 o’clock
Case: Nickel/chromed metal, polished finish
Chain: Vintage gold-tone link design
Charm: Sterling silver, Masonic insignia – McKinley Chapter No. 102, R.A.M., Milwaukee, WI
Era: Circa 1930s–1940s
Condition: Very good; dial clean with light patina, case shows mild wear, crystal clear, chain and charm intact with natural age toning; movement not tested for operation.
Shipping
Shipping & Pick-Up Information
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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:
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📧 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.