The Waltham S16, 1899-620/625 & 1908-620/625

1899-620 Hunter 1902

This is one of a series of posts illustrating the main grades of Waltham size 16 watches, primarily the 1899 & 1908 models. Note that specifications did change over time, the description below being typical.

The 1899 and 1908 versions are essentially the same and so can be treated together.


1908-620 Open Face 1918

This was probably the best value watch in the range in terms of price performance, in todays terms the movement without a case cost $297, certainly a big premium on the 7 jewel -610 which was $187 (and the Traveler the Gilt version) but it was $79 cheaper than the 625 which was the same except for two extra jewels which would not have made a significant difference to the performance.

The nickel movement has 15 Jewels, a Swiss lever escapement with a Breguet Sprung cut compensating balance with micro adjuster. It is unadjusted and has a single roller. Hunter and open faced versions were produced, all are pendant set. There were a few 17 jewel versions made but I have never seen one in UK.

The difference in movement layout illustrated by the two examples is down to the difference between a Hunter and an Open Faced design to get the winder at 3 o'clock.


The 1899-625 & 1908-625


1899-625 Hunter from 1903

The -625 is the same as the - 620 but with the addition of 2 jewels for a total of 17.