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Vintage 8-Day "Goliath"

by C. Bradley Jacobs

In a previous review, I showed a photo of my “Goliath” watch – a large, 8-day pocketwatch-style clock from the 1920s. I've been asked for more info, so here are a bunch of photos and some description. Remember when looking at the photos that this timepiece measures a full 5 inches across! Please click any photo to see a larger image.

The display case that the watch is in shows only the face of the watch. The box is hinged mahogany with a sterling silver shell formed over the top. It is engraved with my great-great grandfather’s initials (also those of my uncle and almost mine, which are CBJ).

The watch and box were sold by the famous Washington D.C. silversmiths Black, Starr and Frost. That is the name visible on the dial.

The movement is a 15-jewel Octava. In my photos you see the original movement which has been replaced. One day I will have the original movement restored and put back in the watch. The movement is marked “Octava Watch Co., Switzerland – 3 adjustments – U.S.A.P. 816321” I have not looked up the actual date of this patent, but I should.

You can clearly see that the movement is tiny in comparison with the case. I use the term “goliath” for this watch because I have seen that term used on British horological websites. I’ve also seen these watches referred to as “coach watches” because they were, apparently, common timekeepers on horse-drawn coaches (like stage coaches in the US).

It’s a pretty cool piece although not portable like a pocketwatch or wristwatch. It sits on a shelf in my living room and does not get much use. But whenever I glance at it I do feel a sense of pride of ownership. That the item has been in my family for four generations is remarkable. I also have some pocketwatches belonging to my ancestors on that side and I’ll put together a photo essay of the 23-jewel Howard I have.

I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing this as much as I have enjoyed sharing it.

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