4452 RARE INGERSOLL & BRO WORLD'S COLUMBUS EXPOSITION, CHICAGO 1893
Presented for your consideration, a rare collectors timepiece:
Ingersoll first introduced this watch in 1893 in celebration of the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus' arrival in the new world in 1492.
On the dial: "COLUMBUS R.H. INGERSOLL & BRO NEW YORK". Around the broad bezel is "WORLD'S COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION CHICAGO 1893".
Text on case front reads "World's Columbian Exposition - Chicago 1893." Back features raised design of Columbus at top, flanked by Native American and wreath-wearing Liberty with main image of Columbus's ships the Niña, the Pinta and the Santa María set above Exposition building. Replicas of the ships were featured at the exposition. Hinged back opens to reveal built-in winding key. Case has burnished metal finish, as produced. Watch face has smaller, seconds dial.
The pocket watch chain that comes with this outstanding collector's watch is made up of a series of medals depicting, in relief, the head of Christopher Columbus flanked by those of Presidents Washington, Lincoln, Grant and Sherman (see pictures, please).
MOVEMENT: back key wind and back set pin pallet lever escapement. Back-plate inscription content: PATENTED JAN.15.1878. MAY.6.1890. DEC.23.1890. JAN.13.1891. PATENTS PENDING.
The watch winds, sets and runs (not checked for accuracy).
MEASURES: 65mm diameter, 28.50mm thickness.
GENERAL CONDITION: very good+/Excellent general condition, please refer to the pictures.
PLEASE NOTE: the last two pictures show vintage advertisings (not included)
THE HISTORICAL ANECDOTE:
selling goods at the exposition was not allowed but Ingersoll got around this by giving Fair patrons a voucher for $1.50 which could be exchanged for a watch of their choice at a stock room on the ground floor of the Palmer House. The Fair Directors claimed that this was a violation of their agreement and one night boarded up the Ingersoll stand. The story was carried in many newspapers and caused great discussion. However the dispute was settled and the stand reopened. Robert Ingersolls comment on the whole affair was the classic 'all advertising is good advertising'.