Argus pocket watch protective case – France, 1900–1940

This pocket watch protective case from the French brand Argus dates from between 1900 and 1940. Such protective capsules, often also referred to as miners' capsules, were developed to protect delicate pocket watches from damage during daily work.

Pocket watches were valuable precision instruments in the 19th and early 20th centuries and were indispensable for many professions. Artisans, railway workers, miners, and other workers in particular used sturdy protective cases to protect their watches from dust, impacts, moisture, and scratches. Such capsules were also used in the military.

The teardrop-shaped case is made of silver-colored metal and has a round, transparent viewing window through which the time could be read without having to remove the pocket watch. Inside is a reddish-brown protective insert. The metal chain with a snap hook allowed it to be securely attached to clothing. The front of the case is marked "Argus Déposé", while the back bears the stamp "21 ½".

• Brand: Argus Déposé

• Origin: France

• Period: presumably 1900–1940

• Material: silver-colored metal, transparent viewing window, and reddish-brown protective insert

• Design: pocket watch protective case with chain and snap hook

• Markings: Argus Déposé, 21 ½

• Dimensions: approx. 6.5 × 5 × 2 cm

• Weight: approx. 40 g

• Quantity: 1 piece, without pocket watch

This is an old utilitarian item with corresponding signs of age and use. Please also refer to the detailed images.