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The Model 1861 Fitt's Patent 10 size has the second implementation of Fitt's Patent first introduced on the KW18 (1859) Model. In the KW18, the ratchet wheel is applied to the center wheel so that backlash of the main wheel because of a broken mainspring will spin the ratchet in the non-engaged direction and do no harm to the gear train. In the 1861 Model 10 size, the ratchet is fitted to the main wheel. If the spring breaks, the barrel will spin, but the main wheel will remain stationary. This mechanism presages the much later invention of the safety or motor barrel. Being a keywind, the mainspring is still wound from the center arbor. This watch was produced in both Appleton Tracy Grade and P. S. Bartlett Grade. There may also be a handful of American Grade watches (25 or less) in this model, but I am not aware of any being seen. This example is Appleton Tracy Grade in an 18K case that is unsigned by the maker. The dial is signed American Watch Co. Watch parts of the 1861 model |
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