Pocket watch

Q: I have inherited a pocket watch from a distant cousin. It was crafted by E. Howard & Company. A local jeweler told me it is 18 karat and the “N” size. Is this a keeper? — Jim, Wichita, Kan.

A: Edward Howard was a pioneer watchmaker based in Boston. He produced excellent timepieces, and they have become quite collectible. If your watch is marked “E. Howard & Company,” it was made before 1903 when the company was sold to Keystone Watchcase Company. The new company continued to craft timepieces until about 1930.

Your watch is featured in 100 Years of Vintage Watches: A Collector’s Identification and Price Guide by Dean Judy (Krause Publications, $24.95). Judy, a watchmaker/jeweler and collector, values your watch in the $1,500 to $2,800 range, depending on condition.

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Q: I have a chocolate set that is hand-painted and marked “Nippon.” I would appreciate any help you can give me in establishing a value. — Sylvia, Siesta Key, Fla.

A: Although there are several excellent price guides, one of the better ones is The Collectors Encyclopedia of Nippon Porcelain and Price Guide, by Joan F. Van Patton. I found a copy available at amazon.com for $24.95. You might also check your local library to see if it has a copy. This is an easy-to-use guide that should help you determine a ballpark figure for your antique chocolate set.

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Q: I have a cast-iron cooking utensil and a child’s tin watering pail. Do you think these items have any value? — Mitchell, Monroe, La.

A: I carefully examined the photos you sent and have come to the conclusion that your items are fairly common and worth only two or three dollars each.

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Q: I have a collection of antique wall pockets. How can I find out more about these items? — Sherry, Atwater, Minn.

A: Two collectors that might be helpful are Bobbie Bryson, 1 St. Eleanoras Lane, Tuckahoe, NY 10707; and Pam Brim, 8 Park Lane, Minneapolis, MN 55416.