Jules Jurgensen 14K

I inherited a gold watch from my father.  I remember how excited he was when he purchased the watch.  However, I rarely remember him wearing it.  It has a very slim profile and leather band. 

The paperwork I received with it has a few clues.  

First a tag saying 

6108 

14KT CAL 

$775.00

Second a tag saying 

9572.045.4 

399.97

Mtl 14K

Rnd Cal

Swp

Brn S

My interpretation is that $775 was the retail price and it was listed for $400 when my father purchased it.  I wanted to wear it so decided to have a battery put in.  I ventured to  Jewelry and Watch Specialists at 8601 W Cross Dr f7, Denver and they originally said an hour ($16) and then let me know that Mark (the owner) would have to take it to his watch maker on Monday who could install a battery for a little bit more.  The issue is that it is a one piece case with an acrylic face that is pressed into the watch.  It is a very robust case, but requires more care to maintain.  I asked Mark about the value for insurance purposes and he could not really provide me a ballpark.  He suggested looking at completed listings on eBay which he estimated could be between $1000 and $3000.

Jules Jurgensen has a history going back to 1740, but the company was sold in the 1974 to Mort Clayman who passed away in 2010 and his family closed the business.  In 2011 Dr Helmut Crott acquired the rights from the Clayman Family.

While at Jewelry and Watch Specialists, I spied a Rolex Submariner in his case.  I inquired and he had it listed for $9,500 which he acknowledged was inline with online retailers, but that Rolex is in a bubble.  If I really want a new dress watch, it may be time to pursue an Omega Seamaster.  Retail pricing is $5900, but the secondary market is half that.

On a final note, Jewelry and Watch Specialists will be closing their doors at the end of October.  Mark is retiring and the couple has been looking for a buyer, but will likely just shutter the operation.