Posted 12 years ago
hockeyguy
(6 items)
I found this item in a lakeside cabin that we purchased, and was wondering if anyone has ever seen anything like it before.
From what I have been able to find out so far is that it is a casting of the building that Gruen watches built when they came to the USA in 1917.
From looking at it, it would appear that it was used to display items ?
If anyone can shed any light on this item or point me in the right direction to find further information it would be greatly appreciated !
Very cool piece! Gruen factory was called Time Hill. http://www.pixelp.com/gruen/1917.html
Gruen made several models like this one. It was when they were advertising their watches from the 1920's when they were referred to them as Gruen Guild watches. There was a similar one, that I happen to have, that has two astronomers sitting at a table together... an oddly non-watch sort of thing but they were a little weird like that during the Guild era.
They were used to display watches or hold information cards. For watches, the positions have felt/velvet on them.
It's a fantastic find you've made and it's in great condition. You can find a group of Gruen experts and collectors on the Gruen forum at
http://www.GruenWristwatches.com
Some folks may be able to shed more light on your excellent display should you wish to post your pictures there. I'm sure everyone would enjoy seeing it, just as I have.
Congrats on your find.
Mike & Brunorob,
Thanks for your comments and information.
Much appreciated.