98.              $450

Welch, Spring & Co. “Gerster”, ca. 1880. A beautiful 18.5-inch case with rosewood veneer, a fine furniture polish, and just the right amount of patina to give it age. I see no flaws in the case; the glasses are original (with a chip at the top of the door glass), and the dial has been repainted. The hands are Patti hands.  The 8-day, time-and-strike Patti movement is running and striking delicately on the nickel bell on the hours.  A proper Welch sandwich glass pendulum, flocking paper on the back wall, and an excellent label on the back. Absolutely nothing not to like here.  Gersters are currently selling for between $350 and $600.  I’d put this one at the top end.  $350–$600.