Illinois made many RR grade pocket watches, most in sizes 18 and 16, but also 17. There were 22 different size 16 watches made.
It is said that about 500,000 Bunn and Bunn Special watches were made between 1872 and sometime in the 1940's. The Bunn watches had 16-19 jewels. Bunn Specials had either 21 or 23 jewels. The Bunn Specials were top notch watches, but other finer watches were at times made by Illinois, such as the Stuart, 105, 179, 189, 310, 710, and the Sangamo Special.
The Bunn Specials were graded by number, that number being the model number of the watch, and engraved on the movement. The choice movements, in decending order were the Illinois 163A (the most expensive and top Illinois PW, and one of the more expensive watches to collect), followed by the Illinois 163, 161A, 161, and then the Illinois 60 hour models. However, all models 163A, 163, 161A and 161 were 60 hour mainspring watches. There were numerous other Bunn Special models, but these were the top grades and the most expensive to purchase. The Illinois 163A is considered equal in collectability and value to the rare Model 13 Illinois Sangamo Special (a 17 size RR Grade Pocket Watch).
The grade numbers 161 (for 21 jewel Bunn Specials) and 163 (for 23 jewel watches) were introduced in 1930. In 1931, Elinvar was first used in balances and Hairsprings in the model 161 and 163 watches, which were soon replaced by 161A and 163A, which also have a different damaskeen pattern.
In December, 2012 I saw a 21 jewel Bunn Special in a salesman case in very nice condition sell for $655.01 - I was interested, but not at that price.
The model 163 commands prices in excess of $1000 and I am not sure why. It has 163 stamped on the movement between the two large gears. I am not sure what else about the watch is special. Only 3700 of this type were made, and it may simply be that watches with this marking are sought by collectors and are not necessarily otherwise excellent. One I saw for sale in December of 2012 was selling for over $1500 (manufactured about 1931). It seems somewhat like coin collecting where rare and valuable coins simply have unusual markings.
Apparently there are 3 types of 60 hour Bunn Specials. They are designated type I, II, and III. This nomenclature was introduced by a fellow (the late William "Bill" Meggers) -- see this thread.
The Type III movements are seen in what are called A and B variants. the earlier "A" variant has "Illinois Watch Co., Sprinfield" on the train bridge. In 1928 Illinois was taken over by the Hamilton Watch Company. At this time the letters "Co." were dropped from the marking. Note that the "163" markings came along after the Hamilton takeover.
One example of a Type II was a "Model 14" (with "Motor Barrel 60" over the crown wheel and "Sixty Hour" repeated up top), Grade Bunn Special, adjusted to temperature and 6 positions, double roller, gold jewel settings, full gold train, gold balance screws, ¾ nickel plat. I am not sure how much of this is common to all Bunn Specials.
My first Illinois watch (purchased in December of 2012) was a 60 hour Bunn Special
(a type III, A variant, with 21 jewels).
I have seen other watches of this type sell for $470, so I got more than a fair deal.
Here are the sellers (Premier Collectibles WNY) comments:
The Original Rose Gold Filled case:
It is all correct and original.
It shows light wear, due to the daily use of going in and out of pockets and age.
It is nice and bright with a great finish.
The edges are very nice and crisp.
The back screws on smoothly and as tight as drum.
The bezel has no wear or handling.
The decorative edge is nice and crisp.
The case is not inscribed or personalized.
Please examine the pics closely for more detail.
This fantastic watch has been lovingly cared for and properly stored.
The watch case measures approx. 60mm x 63mm.
The Original Crown
Is in very nice shape.
It has a crisp set of grooves all around.
It winds firm and is not at all sloppy.
The crystal:
Is clean and clear.
Shows no wear.
The dial:
All original dial has one hairline by the six marker.
Dial is bright and clean.
The Movement:
The watch is fully serviced by on staff watch maker.
The watch is running strong and keeping great time.
The balance is swinging out Beautifully.
It has 21 jewels and is adjusted to 6 positions.
Rare model 29.
60 hr motor barrell.
It is a stem set.
Movement is nice and bright and is in immaculate condition.
Serial number 5172001 which dates it to 1928.
The watch has been fully serviced - Cleaned, Lubed and Regulated.
I watched another auction for a Bunn Special in a salesman case. The watch had not been serviced, and the case is silver in color (as are all salesman cases from what I can learn). The watch sold for $450, with 28 bids and no sniping (the final price held for 3 days). I was tempted, but held myself back. It was sold by decowatches, who seems to be a high end seller.
Tom's notes / tom@mmto.org