Wednesday, December 30, 2015

J.S. Townsend's "Superior". Hampden, 15 Jewel, Model 2, in Gold Filled, Dueber-Hampden, Salesman's Display Case. Manufacturing Date; 1883 at Springfield, Mass. before "Hampden" became "Hampden-Dueber Watch Co.". 
This 2nd Townsend may well be in it's original case, (no extra screw marks), which might account for the Dial being marked "Hampden" & the movement being marked "J.S. Townsend's Superior" so as to advertise both "Hampden" & "Townsend" to prospective buyers. The other "Superior" listed in the "Hampden Watch Co." book is listed as HN2L  A/T 15 Jewel. The A/T listing is unusual (if not unique) but I think this means it was Adjusted & Timed by Townsend rather than at the factory. After all Townsend was a Railway Time Inspector. 
So far I have never seen another Gold Filled Factory Display Case except this one. All the rest were "Silverine". It's in astonishingly good shape, showing no wear or markings & has a good tight bow.  

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