What is a pocket watch movement grade?

To make things clear, the grade referred above is the pocket watch grade name or grade number. These are collectively known as the pocket watch movement grade or a pocket watch’s mechanism with a particular size, finish, and jewel count.

This is different from the pocket watch serial number which is indicative of the year the timepiece was manufactured. Thus, a pocketwatch may have the same pocket watch movement grade for consecutive serial numbers. For example, a Hamilton pocket watch with serial numbers from 194001 to 195000 has a movement grade of 926.

Another good example of a movement grade is the term applied to the railroad grade pocket watches that have to follow certain criteria set by the General Railroad Timepiece Standards. Open face pocket watches with a railroad grade are said to be one of the most accurate timepieces ever made.
 

What is a pocket watch condition grade?

If you are one of the lucky ones who have inherited a vintage pocket watch from your folks, it is necessary to have your pocket watch appraised. Before you can asses the pocket watch value, you must first know the pocket watch grade.

One of the factors that determine the value of pocket watch is its physical condition. This is called the pocket watch condition grade. The top three pocket watch super grades are the Pristine Mint, Mint Plus, and the Mint condition. Pocketwatches in these grades have high premiums or dealer’s mark up rates.

Here is the pocket watch condition grading scale

G 10 (Pristine Mint)

The pocket watch is new and unused. It is still sealed inside its original box, complete with its proof of authenticity.

This brand new Charles Hubert pocket watch has 17 jewels. Pockets watches of good quality and fine movement grade are lifetime investments.

G 9 (Mint Plus)

The box has been opened but the pocket watch has been tucked away for safekeeping. The pocket watch is still good as new.

G 8
(Mint)

The pocket watch still has its original box and wrapper, it may have been used for a few times, but the pocketwatch does not show any obvious signs of wear.

G 7
(Near Mint)

When inspecting the pocket watch under a loupe and a strong light, there are minor defects (a barely visible dents and surface scratches).

G 6
(Excellent)

With a closer look, there are minor flaws (some signs of brassing, light scratch or hairline cracks) on the pocket watch that can be seen with the naked eye.

G 5
(Good)

The pocket watch movement is still in good working condition; however, the latch and hinge have been damaged. The pocket watch has visible minor flaws. Gold filled pocket watches start to show some brass rings.

G 4
(Fair)

There is a more obvious sign of wear. There are major discolorations on the pocket watch case like rusting and brass patches. The pocket watch face may also show some age spots, deep cracks and chips on the dial, etc. The engravings have been rubbed off. The pocket watch has a poor ticking sound.

G 3

The damaged parts have been poorly replaced. There are medium to heavy dents on the pocket watch case. Severe signs of wear and heavy corrosion on the watch movement. Poor repairs are evident.

G 2
(Poor)

The pocket watch may not be functioning properly because of its missing parts (springs, numerals, etc). A pocket watch with a lower grade is no longer functional and may as well be salvaging pocket watch parts.