 About the Cover
Wristwatch columnist Bruce Shawkey visited the Library and Research Center this fall and, with a little nudging, agreed to write a column for us based on a theme derived from wristwatches in the Museum collection. He selected a group of watches from the early 1950s that represent the design trends of that period and then, with effort and talent, created this month's Wristwatches column. The 'mid-century modern" watches featured on the front cover and described below were selected by Bruce from he Museum collection: Top left: The Dorsey is from the 1955 catalog "The New Hamilton." The Dorsey has a 14K yellow-gold case, and 18K gold numerals and markers on a sterling silver dial. Left, second from top, and left, bottom: The 19-jewel Robert and the 17-jewel Roberta were "Match Mates" in a 1953 Hamilton catalog. These also have a 14K gold case, with a brush finish, and black dials with 18K gold numerals and markers. Third from top, left: Nicknamed the "Golf Ball," this 1957 direct-read watch has rotating hour and minute discs. The case is 10K rolled gold and the 13/0 size movement contains 17 jewels. Top right: This 8/0 size model "10AK" 21-jewel watch came in the gold-colored "clam shell" case shown on the cover. Bottom right: This Jaeger-LeCoultre watch that looks like it's fit for a queen actually was–or rather the original one was, as this is an exact copy of a watch presented to Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. This watch has an 18K yellow-gold case and a back wind and set movement. The liftable face lid is set with four full-cut diamonds. The bracelet is 18K yellow-gold mesh. The Hamilton watches on the cover are included in a large display of Hamilton vintage wristwatches in the Museum's Hamilton exhibit area that belong to members Ronald and Virginia Ettelman. The Hamilton exhibit is greatly enhanced by this group of wristwatches. The generosity of Ron and Virginia in enabling this long-term display is very much appreciated. Photography by Roger Huegel | 
