Illinois Bunn Special 23J 60-Hour Railroad Pocket Watch – 14KWGF Skeleton Case – Private Dial – Rare Antique Railroad Chronometer VA Grade

A rare survivor from America’s golden age of railroad timekeeping—this Illinois Bunn Special 23-Jewel, 60-Hour chronometer stands as one of the most advanced precision pocket watches produced in the early 20th century. Paired with its luxurious 14K white-gold-filled skeleton case and a striking private railroad dial, this piece is a museum-worthy artifact of industrial artistry, horological innovation, and railroader heritage.

A powerful statement piece for collectors who seek historical authenticity, mechanical prowess, and the unmistakable presence of a true railroad-grade machine.

DESCRIPTION

This Illinois Bunn Special 23-Jewel 60-Hour Railroad Watch represents one of the most celebrated high-grade American railroad movements of the era. Developed in the 1910s–1920s at the peak of railroad safety standards, the 23J Bunn Special was engineered for extreme accuracy, shock resistance, temperature stability, and dependable long-distance operation.

⭐ Exceptional Movement Engineering

The 23J “Sixty-Hour” caliber introduced a groundbreaking extended mainspring barrel, offering nearly three days of power reserve—a major advantage for railroad engineers working long shifts. Its high-polish nickel plates, gold-filled inlays, precision regulator, and jewel settings reflect Illinois’ pinnacle craftsmanship before the company joined the Hamilton Watch Co.

⭐ Rare Private Railroad Dial

This example features a private-label railroad dial—a special-order configuration used by smaller depots, railroad workers, or jewelers. Highly collectible, these dials embody the individuality and working history of America’s rail system. The bold Arabic numerals, crisp minute track, and sub-seconds register reinforce railroad legibility standards.

⭐ 14K White Gold-Filled Skeleton Case

The skeleton (“skelton”) case is crafted from 14K white gold-filled material (14KWGF)—a premium case option for railroad professionals. Robust and elegant, the transparent rear cover offers an unobstructed view of the decorated movement, merging utility with luxury.

⭐ A Vintage Artifact with Integrity

As a VA Grade historical piece, this watch exhibits the honest aging, gentle patina, and century-old charm expected from a working professional timepiece of this level. All major components remain original, including the dial, hands, case, and high-grade movement.

This is a serious collector’s railroad watch—powerful, elegant, and historically significant.

HIGHLIGHTS & FEATURES

• Rare Illinois Bunn Special 23-Jewel 60-Hour railroad movement.

• Private-label railroad dial with bold Arabic numerals.

• Original 14K white gold-filled skeleton display case.

• High-grade 23J movement with extended mainspring barrel.

• Transparent rear cover showcasing movement decoration.

• Railroad-adjusted for accuracy, shock resistance, and durability.

• VA Grade: authentic vintage aging and patina.

• A collectible antique chronometer ideal for display or curated horological collections.

ITEM DETAILS

Category: Antique Pocket Watch / Railroad Chronometer
Brand: Illinois Watch Co., U.S.A.
Model: Bunn Special – 23 Jewels – 60 Hour
Case Material: 14K White Gold-Filled Skeleton Case (14KWGF)
Dial: Private Railroad Arabic Dial
Movement: Mechanical – 23J High-Grade Railroad Movement
Case Size: Approx. 50.7 mm
Origin: USA (early 1900s)
Functions: Hours, Minutes, Seconds
Special Notes: Extended 60-hour movement; high finishing; original components.

CONDITION REPORT

Overall Grade: Vintage Artifact (VA Grade)

Exterior:

• Case shows historical patina, minor surface wear consistent with 100+ years.

• Skeleton back cover clear with age-appropriate signs of handling.

• Bezel and bow show mild abrasion from period use.

Dial:

• Private railroad dial in outstanding condition for age.

• Crisp numerals and clean enamel with minimal aging.

Hands:

• Original blued-steel hands with natural patina.

Movement:

• Clean, well-preserved plates and jewel settings.

• Light aging consistent with a century-old railroad timepiece.

• No modern alterations visible from seller images.

This is an authentic railroad-era artifact with historically appropriate aging.

WHY COLLECTORS WANT THIS PIECE

• A top-tier American railroad watch with legendary precision.

• Rare 23-jewel, 60-hour “Sixty-Hour” movement—highly collectible.

• Private-label dial adds historical individuality and rarity.

• 14KWGF skeleton case provides luxury and visual depth.

• A museum-grade artifact of American industrial and horological history.

• Increasing global demand for high-grade railroad chronometers.

• A visually stunning piece for display, curation, or investment.

BRAND HERITAGE  — Illinois Watch Co.

Founded in 1870 in Springfield, Illinois, the Illinois Watch Company became one of America’s premier producers of high-grade railroad timepieces. Known for superior finishing, advanced movement design, and strict railroad standards, Illinois was a major force in American horology until its later integration into Hamilton Watch Co.

The Bunn Special line stands as the crown jewel of Illinois engineering—celebrated for precision, durability, reliability, and aesthetic refinement. This example reflects the technical mastery and design ethos that helped define railroad timekeeping worldwide.

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