South Bend Watch Company
South Bend, United States · Est. 1903
Founded by Clement Studebaker Jr., George M. Studebaker
The South Bend Watch Company produced high-quality pocket watches in South Bend, Indiana from 1903 to 1929. Known for their Studebaker line (named after the nearby automobile company), they made railroad-grade movements until the Great Depression ended production.
- Founded
- 1903
- Headquarters
- South Bend, United States
- Group
- Independent
- Price Segment
- Mid
- Status
- Defunct
Ceased: 1929
The South Bend Watch Company went bankrupt in 1929 as the Great Depression destroyed demand for American-made pocket watches.
A quarter-century of Indiana craftsmanship — South Bend made honest American watches until the crash took them under.
Key Collections
- Studebaker — Premium line named in partnership with the Studebaker automobile family, featuring high-grade movements suitable for railroad use and general timekeeping.
- Polaris — Notable series produced in the company's later years, representing their continued commitment to precision timekeeping.
- Railroad Grades — Movements meeting strict railroad timing standards, including the Grade 227 and Grade 229, featuring 21 jewels and adjusted to multiple positions for maximum accuracy.
- The Studebaker South Bend — Top-tier movements combining the Studebaker branding with South Bend's finest craftsmanship, often featuring elaborate damascening on the plates.
Timeline
- 1903 — South Bend Watch Company founded in South Bend, Indiana, with backing from members of the Studebaker family.
- 1906 — Factory completed and watch production commenced, with early movements gaining reputation for quality finishing.
- 1914 — Introduced the Studebaker line of premium movements, capitalising on the famous local automobile name.
- 1923 — Peak production years with full range of railroad-grade and consumer movements available.
- 1929 — Company declared bankruptcy as the Great Depression devastated the American watch industry, ceasing all production.
Frequently Asked Questions about South Bend Watch Company
- When did South Bend Watch Company stop making watches?
- South Bend Watch Company ceased production in 1929 when the Great Depression caused demand for American pocket watches to collapse, forcing the company into bankruptcy after 26 years of operation.
- Are South Bend watches still valuable?
- South Bend pocket watches remain collectible, particularly railroad-grade movements and Studebaker-branded models. High-grade examples in good condition command respectable prices among American horology collectors, though they generally rank below Hamiltons and Walthams.
- Can I still buy a South Bend watch today?
- South Bend watches are available only on the vintage market through dealers, auctions, and collector sales. The brand has never been revived, so no new production exists.
- What connection did South Bend watches have to Studebaker automobiles?
- The Studebaker family of automobile fame helped found and finance the South Bend Watch Company, with Clement Studebaker Jr. serving as an early backer. The company later produced a premium 'Studebaker' line of movements trading on this connection.
- Were South Bend watches approved for railroad use?
- Yes, South Bend produced several movements meeting railroad timing standards, including 21-jewel grades adjusted to multiple positions. These were approved for use by railroad employees requiring precise, reliable timekeeping.