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Vintage Waltham Ladies Watch 17 Jewels Incabloc Swiss Gold Tone
Dear friends and fellow collectors,
Hello from my little corner of the world here in a quiet small town, where time seems to slow down just enough to appreciate the finer things from yesteryear. I'm just a simple gentleman with a passion for horology, the kind who's spent years tinkering with these beautiful old timepieces in my cozy workshop, surrounded by the gentle tick-tock of history. Today, I'm honored to offer you this charming vintage Waltham ladies' wristwatch, a true gem from the mid-20th century that's more than just a watch—it's a whisper from the past, a heirloom waiting to find its next loving home. If you're like me, you know that some items carry stories, emotions, and a sense of nostalgia that can't be replicated in today's fast-paced world. This piece does just that, and I'd be delighted to share its tale with you.
Let me start by identifying this lovely watch for you, based on careful research and comparison with similar models. This is a genuine vintage Waltham ladies' wristwatch, Swiss-made with a reliable 17-jewel manual wind movement featuring Incabloc shock protection—a hallmark of quality engineering from the era. Waltham, one of America's pioneering watch companies founded in 1850, transitioned to incorporating Swiss movements in their later years after ceasing U.S. production in 1957. This particular model likely dates to the 1950s or 1960s, a time when elegance met everyday durability. The dial proudly reads "Waltham" at the top, with "Incabloc 17" below, set against a silver-toned face with gold hour markers and hands that catch the light just so. The case is a petite octagonal shape, measuring about 20mm across (excluding the crown), perfect for a delicate wrist. It's crafted with a base metal bezel that's gold-plated for that warm, inviting glow, paired with a stainless steel back for longevity. The crown, marked with a subtle "W," winds smoothly, hinting at the craftsmanship within.
Now, about the band—oh, bless its heart, it's seen better days, but that's part of its authentic charm. This ornate expansion-style bracelet, gold-toned with intricate filigree lugs that evoke Art Deco influences, measures around 6 inches when laid flat but shows separation in a couple of links, as you can see in the close-up photos. It's repairable by any skilled jeweler, and imagine the joy of restoring it to its former glory! The watch itself shows honest wear: some patina on the case, light scratches on the crystal, and a dial that's aged gracefully with a subtle vintage haze. I haven't tested its timekeeping recently— these old mechanical beauties often need a gentle cleaning and oiling after sitting idle—but it winds without issue, and similar models are known for their reliability once serviced. If you're handy or know a local watchmaker (like the fine folks in my town), this could be ticking away beautifully in no time.
What truly sets this watch apart, dear buyer, is its rapidly increasing rarity. Waltham watches like this one are becoming scarcer every day. With the original American Waltham company closing its doors nearly 70 years ago, and fewer surviving examples in such evocative condition, these pieces are vanishing from the market. Collectors are snapping them up as investments, heirlooms, or simply to relive the elegance of a bygone era—think of the 1950s housewife slipping this on for a special dinner, or a young lady receiving it as a cherished gift. In today's world of disposable smartwatches, this Waltham stands as a testament to enduring craftsmanship, a reminder that true quality lasts generations. I've seen similar models fetch $70-100 at auction when restored, but with the emotional pull of its history, this one could easily become priceless to the right person. It's not just a timepiece; it's a connection to simpler times, to family stories shared over Sunday suppers, to the quiet pride of owning something handmade with care.
As a small-town enthusiast who's appraised dozens of these over the years—drawing from trusted sources like eBay sold comps and horology forums—I'd value this at $60-80 in its current state, but its potential shines brighter. That's why It's priced at a friendly $49.99, inviting you to join the fun and perhaps discover a bargain. For those who feel that instant connection, the Buy It Now is set at $64.99—a fair price that reflects its worth while leaving room for your own restoration magic. I ship promptly and securely via USPS First Class, free of charge within the U.S., because I believe in making this easy and enjoyable for you. International friends, please message me for rates—I'm always happy to accommodate.
If this watch speaks to your heart, imagine gifting it to a loved one, perhaps polishing it up for a milestone birthday or anniversary. Or keep it for yourself, winding it each morning as a ritual of mindfulness in our hectic lives. It's pieces like this that remind us of life's fleeting moments, urging us to cherish them. I'm here to answer any questions—feel free to reach out; I promise a prompt, honest reply from one collector to another. Thank you kindly for considering this special find. May it bring you as much joy as it's brought me in sharing it.
Warm regards, Your friendly neighborhood watch enthusiast
Specifications Recap:
Please note: Sold as-is, no returns on vintage items unless misrepresented. All photos are of the actual watch—zoom in for details!
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))
Condition: Pre-owned - Fair
| Type | Wristwatch |
|---|---|
| Brand | Unbranded |
| Features | 12-Hour Dial |
| Department | Men |
| Customized | Yes |
| Movement | Mechanical (Automatic) |
Ships from the United States with tracking.
Gosla Antiques & Collectibles