Agassiz Swiss Chronograph Pocket Watch Overhaul

A Rare Swiss Agassiz Chronograph Pocket Watch with Inscription from 1898

Every now and then I get to work on a watch that has some historical significance. This Rare Agassiz Swiss Chronograph Pocket Watch with a Patek Philippe Snail Regulator from 1898 has a connection to the Harvard Weld Boat Club. The watch was presented to P.J. Donovan, the coach in 1898. P.J. Donovan was Boston’s best-known rowing coach during a time when Harvard beat Yale and dominated the Regatta Races. The Regatta Races have a 150-year tradition and is called the most venerable rivalry in all of the college sports.

1903 Boston Globe Article Featuring Coach Donovan

The Weld Boat Club got its name from George Walker Weld who first built the boathouse at Harvard in 1889. Later a grander structure was built in 1906 that currently stands. It is a beautiful structure favored by painters and photographers and is located on Lake Charles on the Harvard Campus.

The Famed Weld Boat House

College competitive rowing started way back in 1854 long before the college football rivalries and was a national event attended by thousands of people. This rare chronograph watch was probably used to time some of the races. The watch has an inscription inside the solid gold case dedicated to coach P.J. Donovan. Donovan was one of Harvard’s most successful coaches, winning Harvard many victories and trophies.

Rare Photograph Showing Harvard’s Four Man Rowing Crew During Donovan’s Time at Harvard

This watch is currently owned by a relative of Donovan. The watch was sent in for restoration and overhauled. It was returned to an excellent working condition. The watch was completely disassembled and cleaned. Reassembled and lubricated. Repaired chronograph. Regulated and timed balance. Adjusted set lever. Hand cleaned case. Placed on extended testing. Watch Repair Complete