Oct 15 2025
Antique Swartchild Sectioned/Tapered Oak Wood Pocket Watch Crystal Case Chicago
Posted by in antique
A collector once shared a story about a trip to a rural flea market where he spotted an old box labeled Misc. Inside were rusted keys, broken trinkets, and random odds and ends. There he discovered a hand-engraved dedication on the inside lid: To Capt. Taylor – For Meritorious Service, 1918. Curious, the collector traced the box back to a decorated World War I officer. He contacted the officer’s surviving family, who were stunned to learn about the box. They had thought it was lost forever. Later, they shared photos of the box displayed in a family history exhibit. Samuel Swartchild (originally Schwarzschild) immigrated to the US as a child. After a brief stint in the Civil War Union army, he moved to Chicago and became a supplier of tools and materials for watchmakers, jewelers, and engravers. Located on East Madison Street, the company advertised itself as the “World’s Largest Watchmakers’ and Jewelers’ Supply House”. It was one of Chicago’s oldest businesses when it closed. This handmade oaken wood case housed different-sized pocket watch crystals or “lentilles” (lenses) as they were called. Given the construction and appearance, we’re guessing it dates to the 1890s or early turn of the 20th century, especially with its use of horsehide glue and wire finishing nails. Original hardware on the graduated pull drawer, and inside are 96 tapered compartments. The smallest to the right in the picture measure 1.125 by 0.5 inch in length and depth (2.9 x 1.3 cm). The largest compartments are on the left, 2 by 1 inches long and deep (5 x 2.5 cm). Each compartment is about 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) wide, more or less. You can see the compartments and the tapering on the bottom of the drawer along with its excellent patina bearing indication to its age. The box overall measures 13 x 10.25 x 3 inches (33 x 26 x 8 cm) and is in solid, strong, functional condition. Still with its original finish, there is some slight scratching on the top as shown in the photograph. The bottom has some scratches as expected for its age. The sides and front are in very good condition. The drawer slides in and out well and is also in excellent condition. The painted gold lettering is strong and highly visible. The metal Swartchild & Co. Tag nailed to the lid is the perfect final touch. A solid, usable, beautiful box all in one. Full of nice open spaces, not dirty glass vials. Not sure for what you could use it? Coins, stamps, and other small collectibles? Maybe buttons or fishing flies? How about small bits of hardware or jewelry, especially precious metals? Safely store diamonds or other small precious stones individually wrapped in papers? Everything organized and easily accessible at your fingertips! This is a true one of a kind find.