In the late 1800’s, the railroads drove the need for high quality, accurate timepieces. By 1900, American manufactures were producing what were arguably the best watches in the world. The South Bend Watch Company came into existence in 1902 when a number of local business men, including members of the Studebaker family, purchased the Columbus Watch Company and moved the operation to South Bend.

Although most of the company’s records have been destroyed, the efforts of many individuals, organizations, local and national journalists ensured that the company has not been forgotten. Bill Stockton will present on the events that led up to the creation of the company, a look at the company’s operations as well as some technical information on their products.  His talk will end with the demise of the South Bend Watch Company.

As an extra, if you have a South Bend watch and would like to learn what grade/model, size, year made and/or estimated value, please bring the watch to the talk.  Bill has offered to stay after the presentation and share the information he has on the watch.

About Speaker Series

The Studebaker Museum Speaker Series, presented by the Campisi Family Education Fund, is held in the Wiekamp Auditorium. Regular Speaker Series admission is $2. Regular admission fees apply to tour the Studebaker National Museum and The History Museum. Studebaker National Museum and Campus members are admitted free!