Hiram Watch Inc. triangular Masonic pocket watch
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1923
This Hiram Watch Inc. triangular Masonic pocket watch, numbered 191, dates to approximately 1923. It features a 14K gold, two-body case with an overall length of 58 mm including the pendant.
The case back is decorated with a representation of Solomon's Temple surrounded by Masonic symbols, while the band also incorporates Masonic iconography. The top portion of the triangular frame features an eye of Providence motif, and the front bezel is adorned with engraved Masonic tools. The dark blue painted dial displays gold Masonic symbols in place of standard numerals and includes an outer minute track. The watch is powered by a 28 mm, 12 1/2''' rhodium-plated Waltham movement containing 16 jewels.
The mechanism employs a straight line lever escapement, a cut bimetallic compensation balance, and a Breguet balance spring. The watch is accompanied by its original fitted leather box.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Triangular Masonic pocket watch
- Maker
- Hiram Watch Inc.
- Jewel count
- 16 jewels
- Case material
- 14K gold
- Movement size
- 28 mm (12 1/2''')
- Serial number
- 191
- Movement maker
- Waltham
- Patent history
- George J. Keller, July 24, 1923
- Place recorded
- United States
- Maker / attribution
- Hiram Watch Inc.
- Movement serial number
- 22331813
Design
- Visible features
- • Triangular watch case shape with pendant at the apex • Dark blue dial with gold-colored Masonic symbols for hour markers • Gold arrow-shaped hands inset with paste stones • Detailed engraving on the gold case surface featuring architectural and Masonic motifs
- Case and Dial Design
- The watch is housed in a unique triangular two-body 14K gold case. The reverse of the case is decorated with an image of Solomon's Temple, which is encircled by various Masonic symbols. These symbols extend along the band of the watch. The apex of the triangular case features an eye of Providence, and the front bezel incorporates decorative Masonic tools. The overall length of the case, measured including the pendant, is 58 mm. The dial is finished in dark blue paint, providing a contrast to the gold-toned elements. Instead of traditional numerals, the dial utilizes gold-colored Masonic symbols to indicate the hours. An outer track marks the minutes. Time is indicated by gold hands set with paste stones.
- Historical Context and Provenance
- According to the auction records, this watch is based on a design for which George J. Keller of Newark, NJ, received a United States patent on July 24, 1923. The records indicate that Keller manufactured only a limited number of these timepieces. Approximately two years after the patent was issued, a similar design was patented by Theophile Schwab Loeillet, operating as the Tempor Watch Co in Geneva. Loeillet produced silver watches based on this later patent that competed with the Keller design.
- Movement and Technical Specifications
- The timepiece is powered by a rhodium-plated movement measuring 28 mm (12 1/2'''). It is signed by Waltham and bears the movement number 22331813. The caliber features 16 jewels and utilizes a standard straight line lever escapement. Precision in the movement is regulated by a cut bimetallic compensation balance paired with a Breguet balance spring. The auction description notes that the movement currently requires an overhaul.
Identification
- Serial number
- 191
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: The auction description recommends an overhaul for the movement.
- Research required: The specific production quantities are described only as 'very few'.