Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
An authentic World War I era conversion or early factory wristlet watch featuring a Waltham movement housed in a B&B Royal gold-filled case. It boasts bold luminous-style radium numerals, skeletonized hands, and an engraved monogram 'KMI' on the reverse case cover.
Story
Before World War I, men considered wristwatches unmanly novelty items. battlefield conditions made pulling out pocket watches deadly, sparking a revolution in horology that put time on the wrist forever.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1850, the Waltham Watch Company pioneered mass-production horology through interchangeable precision parts. During World War I, Waltham supplied thousands of specialized wristlet movements for soldiers, officers, and military personnel heading to European battlefields.
Condition & Value
Visible age patina on the dial with light discoloration and loss of original luminous paint on the hands. Case shows minor surface wear consistent with age, and the winding crown/stem appears to be missing or detached. Missing/damaged winding components reduce value by 20-30%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.