This first edition of the Baumgartner Collection, presented in full color, comprehensively catalogs Friedrich Alexander Baumgartner's pocket watch case engraving designs from his 27-year tenure as a senior member of the Star Watch Case Company's Engraving Department (1904-1931). The compilation features 3,474 watch case etching designs, offering a unique glimpse into Star Watch's case offerings and Baumgartner's drawing techniques.
The collection has been carefully organized and indexed to serve as a valuable resource for enthusiasts, serious collectors, researchers, historians, and horologists-anyone seeking a deeper appreciation for the intricacy and craftsmanship of watch case design. It includes two indices: one that categorizes designs by theme (e.g., birds, botanical, cabins, eagles, elk and deer, dogs, women), period (e.g., Renaissance), case shape (e.g., pentagon, octagon, cushion), production year, and other groups; and another that lists all cases in the collection with transcribed notes for designs, when available.
This volume is an important tool for horological research on Star Watch cases that further secures Baumgartner's reputation as a distinguished American watch case artist and engraver.
Editorial Reviews:
""Mr. Pittman's compilation is a remarkable tribute to the genius of Friedrich Baumgartner, whose designs for the Star Watch Case Company are distinguished by their artistry and craftsmanship. This book meticulously preserves and presents thousands of Baumgartner's creations, offering collectors and historians an invaluable window into his legacy. Beautifully indexed and thoughtfully arranged, it stands as the definitive resource on Baumgartner's contributions to the art of watch case design and the history of American watchmaking."" - Nathan Moore, historian of American horology and creator of the Pocket Watch Database
