Hamilton 917 Pocket Watch Value Guide

The Hamilton 917 is a quintessential American dress watch movement produced in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, bridging the gap between Art Deco and mid-century design. Renowned for its 17-jewel high-grade precision and three-position adjustment, it remains a favorite for collectors seeking reliable vintage craftsmanship.

What Is Hamilton 917 Pocket Watch Worth?

The typical price range for Hamilton 917 Pocket Watch is $250 - $275 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical condition and the accuracy of the 17-jewel movement adjusted to three positions.
• The preservation of the 10k gold-filled finish, specifically looking for 'brassing' or wear-through on the edges.
• Clarity and original state of the silver-tone dial and the integrity of the gold Arabic numeral markers.

How to Identify Hamilton 917 Pocket Watch?

• Look for the 'Grade 917' engraving and 17 jewels marking on the movement plates.
• Confirm the 10k gold-filled case material and the presence of the sub-second dial located at the 6 o'clock position.
• Verify the silver-tone dial features applied gold Arabic numerals consistent with the 1935-1954 production era.

History of Hamilton 917 Pocket Watch

The Hamilton Watch Company, established in Lancaster, Pennsylvania in 1892, became the premier American watchmaker known for accuracy and durability. The Grade 917 was a popular high-grade movement introduced in the mid-1930s, featuring 17 jewels and adjusted to three positions. It was widely used in dress watches during the transition from the Art Deco era to mid-century modernism.