hallmark symbols on pocket watch

toml649 · Post by **toml649** » Sun Dec 25, 2005 11:26 pm

Hi All,
I have my great grandfather's pocket watch. I believe it is dated 1881 and sterling silver. The dial is labelled "R. LIPMAN NEWCASTLE" and I don't understand the "2951", the stylized "JO" or the shield-like symbol on the back case lid. Can anyone help? Thanks.

TomL

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Waylander · Post by **Waylander** » Fri Dec 30, 2005 7:07 pm

Hi

I don't know the meaning of the number, but could the odd "shield" shape be a very rubbed 'leopard's head' for London? I note that you have dated it correctly to 1881 if it is a London piece. I cannot see a Duty Mark, but I have been previously informed that watch cases were exempted from duty in 1798. As for the maker - don't know him/her - maybe someone with Culme might be able to assist further.

Waylander

toml649 · Post by **toml649** » Mon Jan 02, 2006 11:19 am

Waylander,
Thanks for the help. I will do some more digging.......I had thought about the "shield" being a London mark but wasn't sure. Do you know who R. Lipman was? Presume he's the actual watchmaker and the case was by someone different ("JO"). Thanks again.

TomL
ex-Sydney-ite

Waylander · Post by **Waylander** » Fri Jan 06, 2006 6:00 pm

Yes, I would presume Lipman was the watchmaker.

Waylander