Illinois Bunn 17 jewel 18 size Hunter from 1897

ITEM DESCRIPTION:

This is a nice and fairly scarce “first circular pattern” 18 size 17 jewel Bunn Grade Hunter made in 1897 by the Illinois Watch Company of Springfield, Illinois. Just 1,700 of these movements were ever produced. They were all made in 12 runs between 1891-1897. This one is from the last run.

THE MOVEMENT: Has nice bright damascening with gold jewel settings and bright ruby jewels. This was a working man’s watch and it has a few scratches as you can see in the pictures. The case screws are whole and original as are the rest of the mechanical parts of the watch.

THE DIAL: Is the original porcelain double sunk Gothic for this watch. It has a chip in the center hole and a couple of light hairlines but still has a nice surface. Although, as shown in the photos, you can see the chip if you look up at the dial it is nearly hidden by the boss of the hands when you look directly at it. 18 size Bunn grade hunter dials are very scarce. They have different dial foot position that the open face Bunns. This dial is not perfect but is is correct and original and shows pretty well.

THE CASE: The case is gold filled with even wear. Most of the original engraving is still there and looks good. I do not see much if any brass even on the beautiful sharp coin edge. The hinges are strong and sturdy and the lids open up to the proper 90 degrees. The springs work but the front lid is a little stiff and only springs about half way open by itself. The crown is a little worn and turns smoothly but a little stiffly. The bow is tight. It is all in all a pretty decent case.

RUNNING CONDITION: This watch runs pretty well. It has recently been cleaned and oiled by a good watchmaker but I make no guarantees about how well it will keep time. Give it a few winds and it will take off by itself.

This is a no reserve auction with a reasonable opening bid. Please ask any questions you may have before bidding. I want you to be happy with this watch if you are the high bidder. I have perfect feedback and intend to keep it that way.

AUCTION TERMS

ALL PHOTOS ARE OF ACTUAL LISTED ITEMS

BASICS:
In Fairness to all, any Reserves are NOT disclosed till after auction ends; e-mails requesting reserves will go unanswered.
High bidder must correspond within THREE days of auction end or item WILL be re-listed.
Items are described to the best of our ability; ask specific questions and receive specific answers!
The image/s are of the actual item and are an integral part of its description.
All measurements are approximate and are made using average rulers and measuring devices;
if you wish greater accuracy, please request it.
If you know something about the item that should be brought to the attention of other bidders,
please contact us by e-mail so that we may add to the description.
Unless stated otherwise, items should be considered OLD and in USED or NOT NEW condition.
Due to differences in monitors and resolutions, items may appear other than actual size;
Colors and detail may also be distorted.
If you are in doubt, ask your questions PRIOR to bidding or DO NOT BID.
This is a legal and binding contract; if you have no intention of completing this contract, do not bid.

SHIPPING: USPS
U.S. BIDDERS: Domestic Rate of $8.00 or ACTUAL, which ever is greater, regardless of final value!
( includes shipping, handling, and insurance, unless otherwise stated )
CANADIAN BIDDERS: Must pay $15.00 or ACTUAL, which ever is greater, regardless of final value of item.
INTERNATIONAL BIDDERS: You must get prior approval to bid; if approved and successful, you must pay $25.00 or ACTUAL,
whichever is GREATER, regardless of final value of item. This is not negotiable
WE NO LONGER ACCEPT RETURNS FROM INTERNATIONAL BIDDERS
ANY AND ALL DAMAGE CLAIMS MUST BE HANDLED BY THE BUYER WITH THE SHIPPER!
(normally U.S. Postal Service)

PAYMENT:
Pay-Pal or is the preferred method of payment.
A nonpaying bidder notice will be filed with eBay if necessary.
PAYMENT MUST BE REC'D WITHIN SEVEN (7) DAYS OF AUCTION END
OR ITEM WILL BE OFFERED TO THE OTHER BIDDERS
AND THE APPROPRIATE FEEDBACK WILL BE POSTED!

SATISFACTION GUARANTEED:
Ask your questions PRIOR to bidding! NO RETURNS ACCEPTED FOR "BUYER'S REMORSE"
If item is not as represented, item may be returned for refund within three days of your receipt of it,
minus shipping/handling/insurance fees, unless stated otherwise.
ITEMS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED FOR RETURN FOR ISSUES NOT ADDRESSED PRIOR TO AUCTION END!
Due to the unfortunate experience of bidders "swapping out" parts and then returning the item,
returns are no longer accepted on clocks, watches or fountain pens without approval prior to bidding.
Absolutely NO ADJUSTMENTS will be permitted 30 days after auction ends;
pay early and receive your item early!
BY BIDDING ON THIS ITEM YOU ARE AGREEING TO THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS