estateRUTH.

Identification

Lanco Art Deco Gold-Filled Open-Face Pocket Watch (I.W.C. Co. Case)

Photo reference

3 uploaded photos

Overview

Maker 'LANCO' is clearly visible on the dial and the 15-jewel Swiss movement. The case interior is stamped 'SUPREME I. W. C. CO', identifying it as a gold-filled case made by the Illinois Watch Case Company.

Story

Lanco was a brand of the Langendorf Watch Company, a prolific Swiss manufacturer known for producing reliable, mid-tier timepieces. The movement is housed in a case by the Illinois Watch Case Company (I. W. C. Co.) under their 'Supreme' grade, indicating a quality gold-filled housing typical of the 1920s-1930s export market. The secondary market for vintage pocket watches is highly stratified.

Maker / Origin

Lanco

Condition & Value

The dial exhibits significant age-related deterioration and patina, which is typical for the era but impacts the aesthetic appeal. Conversely, the intricate Art Deco geometric engraving on the case back appears to remain crisp.

Full Research

See what it's actually worth.

Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Market Analysis

The secondary market for vintage pocket watches is highly stratified. While solid gold, highly complicated, or top-tier maker pieces command significant premiums, standard gold-filled examples from mid-tier Swiss makers like Lanco trade primarily as decorative or entry-level collector items. Art Deco styling remains popular, helping these pieces maintain steady, albeit modest, demand on broad online marketplaces.

Value Drivers

▲ Distinct Art Deco dial styling and geometric case engraving appeal to period collectors.

▲ Gold-filled 'Supreme' case by I. W. C. Co. provides a durable, attractive housing.

▲ 15-jewel Swiss movement by Lanco establishes reliable mid-tier mechanical quality.

Concerns

▼ Unverified running condition — if the watch does not run or keep time, the value drops to the lower end of the range.

▼ Unconfirmed crystal presence — if the glass crystal is indeed missing, buyers will factor in replacement costs.

▼ Significant dial deterioration limits the appeal to condition-sensitive collectors.

Best Venue

Given the typical market value for gold-filled Lanco pocket watches, a costly professional service would likely exceed the watch's resale value. It is best sold 'as-is' on a broad online marketplace like eBay or Etsy, ensuring you highlight the attractive Art Deco dial and engraved case while clearly disclosing its running status once confirmed.

Upside Potential

If the watch is confirmed to be in strong running condition, keeps accurate time, and retains an intact original crystal, it could reach the top of the estimate range or slightly exceed it in a retail setting.

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Also found — market-range context

Related comps outside the valuation band· 9 comps

Surfaced during research but not used to anchor the valuation — wrong form, species, era, or no published price. Shown so the market range around this item is visible.

  • eBay
    Vintage LANCO POCKET WATCH RUNS 10J HAND WIND SWISS FOR PARTS OR REPAIR 57
    Sold for parts or repair; not comparable to a complete, working watch.
    $110
  • eBay
    1930s Art Deco SS Lanco 15J Pocket Watch cal 1721 VGC
    Link could not be verified.
    $101
  • eBay
    1930s Lanco Pocket Watch by Langendorf Art Deco Case For Parts Repair
    Sold for parts or repair; not comparable to a complete watch.
    $86
  • eBay
    ANTIQUE IWC Co SUPREME OPEN FACE POCKETWATCH CASE
    Case only; lacks the watch movement.
    $78
  • eBay
    VINTAGE POCKET WATCH - MILITARY ?- LANCO - NOT GOING - MISSING HAND
    Not working, missing hand, and potentially military style.
    $61
  • Gardiner Houlgate· 2022-05-25
    Lanco South African Military nickel cased lever pocket watch, Langendorf 191 15 jewel movement, signed dial, screw case with markings 'U^ A108', 57mm
    Military style with a nickel case; different market appeal than an elegant Art Deco piece.
    $60
  • eBay
    Vintage LANGENDORF SUPREME POCKET WATCH MOVEMENT LOT For PARTS
    Movement lot for parts; not a complete watch.
    $26
  • LUXURY WRIST AND POCKET WATCH· 2023-03-29
    Antique Lanco Silver Plated 15 Jewels Pocket Watch
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price
  • Block Auction House· 2024-08-30
    Antique Lanco Pocket Watch (15 Jewels )
    Sale on record but hammer price not published.
    No price