1902 Waltham Riverside Maximus: 19J Rare Movement, High Grade

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$1,301.00

• Details
  Welcome to the Shop — A Place for Watch Lovers and Story Seekers
  
  Thanks for visiting — it means a lot. Feel free to walk around the shop; you might just see something that grabs your attention. The journey here is sprinkled with “Oh my,” “Oh no,” “I remember that,” and “Will you look at this?”
  
  Before diving into the details, grab your favorite drink and get ready to read about a movement so rare, it can fetch hundreds at auction—just for the movement alone.
  
  But first, a quick (and shameless) plug:
  
  My shop was honored to be selected as one of the watch suppliers for Apple Films’ “Killers of the Flower Moon.”
  Yes, that movie—directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Robert De Niro, Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone, Jesse Plemons, and Brendan Fraser. It just received 10 Academy Award nominations. A heavy, powerful film about a tragic chapter in our country’s history.
  
  Now, back to what I do best. My passion lies in the restoration of watches from 1915 to the early 1930s. I take pride in my authentic restorations, bringing these pieces of history back to life
  
  The Watch: A Rare Waltham Riverside Maximus (0 Size, 19 Jewels, 1904)
  
  If you’re a seasoned collector, you already know how rare this movement is. If you’re just getting started, know this: vintage watches with limited production numbers tend to hold—and increase—their value.
  
  This particular movement?
  • Only 500 produced in 1904
  • Only 9,684 produced between 1900 and 1911
  • None produced in 1905, 1909, or 1910
  
  That makes this a rare survivor.
  
  
  A Bit of History for the Curious
  
  The Waltham Watch Company was renowned for innovation. The 1883 model was a full-plate modern watch, followed by the 1888 model, refining the design further. Seeking a premium line, Waltham introduced the Riverside Maximus in 1896, a top-tier movement meant to rival the best—without outpricing the mass market.
  
  Eventually, Waltham released the Premier Maximus, a limited prestige piece that cemented the Maximus line’s legendary status.
  
  
  What Makes This Watch Special
  
  
  • Waltham Riverside Maximus (0 Size, 19 Jewels)
  • Serial #: 12050007 — a very early production piece
  • Manufactured in 1902, in Waltham, MA
  • Grade: Maximus | Model: 1900 | Open-face configuration
  • Adjusted to position, Breguet hairspring, gold gear train, micrometric regulator
  • Diamond endstones, sapphire pallets, hardened safety barrel
  • Professionally serviced April 2025
  • Dial: Bold Military Shadow Box (WWI “Trench Watch” style)
  • Case: Beautiful shape, gently hand-polished — no wear-through
  • New old-stock crystal and hands
  • Custom 16mm black open-ended alligator band
  
  The dial is is enamel, white, beautiful cobalt blue numbers with beautiful high polished gold accents. This is a real survivor of the past. This that special gift that can be worn for future generations. I would love to know the hidden stories on this treasure.
  
  
  What’s a “Trench Watch”?
  
  
  During WWI, pocket watch movements (0 and 3/0 size) were converted into wristwatches. Common traits:
  • Fixed wire lugs
  • Sterling Silver, Solid Gold, or Silverode cases
  • Military shadow box dials (like this one)
  • Snap lids, delicate case hinges — often damaged over time (this one is intact!)
  
  Case manufacturers included Dennison, Depollier & Sons, Wadsworth, Fahys, and more.
  
  Fun fact: Silverode (also known as Silveroid or Silverine) is a durable alloy made of 45% nickel, 54% copper, and 1% manganese — designed to handle daily wear.
  
  
  Final Notes from Me to You
  
  
  This movement has been completely overhauled and serviced. It runs beautifully. I’ll package it like a porcelain doll and ship it fully insured.
  
  
  This isn’t just a watch — it’s a piece of living history.
  
  I don’t sell anything I wouldn’t proudly offer to my own family. I’m here for the long haul, not just for one-time sales. My goal is simple: legendary customer service and relationships that last.
  
  
  This watch isn’t perfect—but for something over 120 years old, it’s in remarkable condition. The real treasure is the Riverside Maximus movement. I wait months to find one worth restoring—and most are only good for parts. This one is a rare gem.
• Shipping & Policies

  Shipping from United States

  Processing time

  1-5 business days

  Customs and import taxes

  Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.

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  • Accepts Etsy gift cards

  Returns & Exchanges

  I gladly accept returns, exchanges, and cancellations

  Just contact me within: 14 days of delivery

  Ship items back to me within: 30 days of delivery

• Custom or personalized orders
• Perishable products (like food or flowers)
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Conditions of return

Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.

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