Ball have a special 130th anniversary Trainmaster model. With a 40mm case, this vintage style Ball pays tribute to the railroad pocket watches of the 19th century, with its retro dial design. Here’s the word from Ball;
The Trainmaster Railroad Standard 130 Years – a classic and elegant timepiece inspired by a BALL vintage pocket watch from the early 20th century to represent our rich heritage and watchmaking ethos. Limited to 999 pieces, the commemorative timepiece features a 40mm case, micro gas tube luminosity and subsidiary seconds design. In all dark and low-light environments, the 14 micro gas tubes on the dial and hands shine automatically without any form of charging.
You can choose a bit of engraving on the caseback, plus choose the serial number from the 999 pieces. So if your birthday is on the 24th then get busy ordering, as those low numbers will probably be snapped up first. This is a COSC certified timekeeper, with a period style white enamel dial, plus Swiss Made, so it isn’t cheap at just over £2000. But if you want Swiss build quality, and that unique pocket watch look, then you have to consider this one.
Verdict; a pre-order special price of £1830 on the Vanguard II, in stunning blue, is probably going to be a better long term investment than the pocket watch revival. It just has a wider re-sale appeal, and it’s cheaper.