Pocket Watch - Exhibition Souvenir, Melbourne International Exhibition, 1880
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1880
This object is a souvenir manufactured in the form of a pocket watch, intended for the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1880. The item does not function as a timepiece; instead, the front face features a coloured, printed depiction of the Royal Exhibition Building in Melbourne, surrounded by the inscription 'EXPOSITION DE MELBOURNE'.
Measuring 42 mm in width and 60 mm in height, the piece includes a hinged case. When opened, the case reveals a red fabric concertina compartment, which historically contained additional printed scenes of the exhibition or its displays, though these components are now missing. The object serves as a documented example of inexpensive souvenirs created for, and distributed or sold during, the 1880 event.
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
- Souvenir watch
- Width
- 42 mm
- Height
- 60 mm
- Material
- Red fabric
- Inscription
- EXPOSITION DE MELBOURNE
- Object Type
- Exhibition souvenir
- Place recorded
- Australia
- Registration Number
- HT 22970
Design
- Visible features
- • Presence of a crown and bow, simulating a functional watch • Printed depiction of the Royal Exhibition Building on the front cover • Hinged case construction • Missing concertina-style paper inserts
- Context and Provenance
- The object is catalogued under the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1880. It represents a category of items produced for the event, identified as affordable souvenirs. These items were mass-produced and intended for visitors, serving as mementos of the Royal Exhibition Building and the international gathering hosted in Victoria during 1880–1881. The item is currently part of the collection at Museum Victoria. It was acquired via purchase and is kept as part of the museum's documentation regarding public life, science, and the history of the Royal Exhibition Building.
- Construction and Design
- The object is configured to resemble a pocket watch, though it is a non-functioning souvenir designed for the Melbourne International Exhibition of 1880. The exterior features a printed, coloured image of the Royal Exhibition Building, which served as the venue for the exhibition. The piece is fitted with a bow and crown, further mimicking the silhouette of a standard pocket watch of the late 19th century. The case is hinged, allowing access to the interior. The compartment inside is designed with a red fabric concertina mechanism. Currently, these inserts are missing from the object.
- Inscriptions and Identity
- The primary identifier on the piece is the French text 'EXPOSITION DE MELBOURNE', which is printed on the front side of the object. This branding links the souvenir directly to the 1880 event held in Melbourne. The inscription is positioned above the printed illustration of the exhibition building. The museum notes that the presence of this French text suggests specific associations regarding the distribution of the item.
Identification
- 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: Non-functional, souvenir nature means it lacks a movement or dial
- Research required: Origin of production remains unverified beyond the suggestion of French connection