Pocket Watches · Pocket watch
W. M. Robinson 18-carat gold key-wound lever pocket watch
- Maker / attribution
- W. M. Robinson (maker)
- Date
- probably 19th century
- Historical period
- Precision & Scientific Horology (1750 – 1850)
- Country of origin
- England
- Object type
- Pocket watch
- Dimensions
- Diameter 46 mm
- Dealer
- WatchMuseum.org shop
- Stock no.
- Product 2995
- Credit line
- Dealer listing, WatchMuseum.org shop (product 2995)
- Catalogue title (original)
- W.M. Robinson pocket watch 46mm (English)
Editor's note
The listing calls the watch both 20th-century and '1820s'; key winding and an English lever point to the 19th century, so it is dated broadly.View the source record (dealer listing) ↗ (opens another website in a new tab)Suggest a correction
Record summary
Catalogued by WatchMuseum.org shop (stock number Product 2995), this is a pocket watch by W. M. Robinson, made in England, dated probably 19th century. The Atlas places it in the Precision & Scientific Horology period (1750 – 1850) of its Pocket Watches collection. Recorded dimensions: Diameter 46 mm. The record is illustrated with 5 photographs.
Assembled from the source record's structured fields. Dates and attributions are given as the source states them; where a field is missing the Atlas leaves it blank rather than estimating.
Catalogue description
Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop
The W.M. Robinson pocket watch, a certified preowned vintage timepiece, represents the epitome of 20th-century horological artistry. Crafted meticulously in 18k yellow gold, this English lever pocket watch is a testament to the refined craftsmanship of the 1820s. Its 46mm case, adorned with exquisite engravings, not only ensures ease of carrying but also exudes an air of timeless elegance. The gold Roman numeral dial enhances its luxurious appeal, making it a true masterpiece for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Every detail of this key-wound watch is thoughtfully designed, reflecting the dedication and skill of its creator, W.M. Robinson. In excellent condition, this round-shaped pocket watch is a rare find that combines historical significance with unparalleled beauty, making it a worthy addition to any discerning collection. This is a certified preowned Vintage W.M. Robinson English lever pocket watch. It is crafted in 18k yellow gold and exquisitely engraved on the case and gold dial. The watch is key-wound and has a 46mm case size, which is perfect for easy carrying. This pocket watch dates back to the 1820s and is a true treasure of fine craftsmanship. The gold Roman numeral dial adds a touch of elegance to this already luxurious timepiece. Every detail on this watch is carefully thought out, and it’s truly a masterpiece. Whether you’re a collector or someone looking for a unique and beautiful timepiece, this W.M. Robinson pocket watch is worth considering. Creator: W.M. Robinson Case Material: Yellow Gold Case Shape: Round Case Dimensions: Height: 46 mm (1.82 in)Width: 46 mm (1.82 in) Period: 20th Century Date of Manufacture: Unknown Condition: Excellent
Historical context
Precision & Scientific Horology (1750 – 1850)
Harrison solves longitude; Mudge invents the lever; Breguet's Paris workshop defines the modern watch.
From 1750 to 1850 the watch became a precision instrument. Mudge's lever escapement, the cylinder escapement, Lépine's thin bar calibre, Breguet's innovations (overcoil, tourbillon, perpétuelle) and the pocket chronometer of Arnold and Earnshaw all date from this period, while verge watches remained common in cheaper production.
Read the period in the timelineMore pocket watches from this periodEarlier: Early Modern Horology
Atlas type guide
Pocket watches
The pocket watch was the dominant personal timekeeper from the late seventeenth century until the First World War. Its development tracks the history of the escapement: verge watches with fusees until the late eighteenth century; Thomas Mudge's lever escapement (c. 1755) and the cylinder escapement popularised by George Graham and later by Swiss makers; and the Swiss and English lever watches of the nineteenth century. Lépine's bar-bridge calibre and keyless winding made watches thinner and easier to use.
Industrialisation transformed the trade: American factories such as Waltham (from 1850) and Elgin produced interchangeable parts by machine, and Swiss makers responded with their own mechanisation after the 1876 Philadelphia Exhibition. By 1900 a reliable watch was affordable to millions; the finest makers continued to produce complications and precision watches.
What to look for
- The escapement: verge (crown wheel), cylinder, duplex, English or Swiss lever.
- Key winding (a square arbor in dial or back) or keyless crown winding.
- Signatures and serial numbers on the movement, dial and inside case back.
- Hallmarks, case maker's marks and gold or silver standards stamped in the case.
- Dial material: enamel, silver, gold, later printed metal.
Dating clues
- Verge watches dominate before c. 1800; cylinder watches c. 1770–1900; lever watches after c. 1820.
- Keyless winding: increasingly common after c. 1860.
- Manufacturer serial number lists exist for Waltham, Elgin, Longines, Omega, Patek Philippe and others.
General guidance written by the Atlas editors about this kind of object. It is not a statement about this particular piece; for that, rely on the source record above and on physical examination.
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