 About the Cover
Bruce Shawkey writes about Art Deco style watches in this month's
Wristwatches column. A sampling of watches representing the companies
discussed in the article is featured on the front cover. Clockwise from
the top, these include:
A ladies' 1912 Waltham (the date is based on the movement serial
number) with an enameled bezel showing design features that would
inspire Art Deco styles of the 1920s and '30s. Photo courtesy of Jerry
Treiman (CA).
A ladies Bulova from the 1920's that features multi-colored enamel
inlays. Photo courtesy of Bryan Girouard (TX).
The Hamilton Putnam, which exemplifies Art Deco styling, with its
triple-stacked case. Production records show that 6,901 Putnams were
shipped in yellow gold filled, and 3,861 were shipped in white gold
filled. Despite its relative abundance, the model is extremely hard to
find today, especially in good condition without excessive wear on the
case. The Putnam was introduced in 1932 and sold for $47.50. For an
extra $2.50, the customer could get an upgraded dial with raised gold
figures.
An Elgin ladies' watch from the 1920s with a beautiful enameled case.
Referred to by some collectors as "The Lady and the Tiger Model." Note
the Egyptian influence in the enameling. Photo courtesy of William
Hanson (OH).
The background watch image behind the four watches described above is
a 1927 Elgin, called the "E-9." The case is 14 karat white filled. Note
the Mayan influence in the case enameling. The sides of this watch are
also engraved. Photo courtesy of Bryan Girouard.
Bruce Shawkey | 
