Die Geschichte der Mikey Mouse Uhren von Walt Disney - Gerald Genta, Ingersoll, Waterbury - Sammler-Uhren

The History of Walt Disney's Mikey Mouse Watches - Gerald Genta, Ingersoll, Waterbury

When the first Mickey Mouse watch was released in 1933, it cost $3.25. If you're lucky enough to own a watch from 1933 today, it would cost significantly more!

There have been many Mickey Mouse watches over the past century, and dating your watch is a crucial factor in determining its value. If you're unsure how to determine the era of your Mickey Mouse watch, read on! We've compiled a list of the various Mickey Mouse watches from the past century, including key features and how to determine their value.

Ingersoll-Waterbury produced the original Mickey Mouse watch and continued to release other versions until the 1960s. Most watches from before the 1970s are Ingersoll-Waterbury.

In the 1970s and beyond, Mickey Mouse watches were produced by various brands and designers, most notably Seiko and Gérald Genta, who released luxury limited-edition watches. The value of a Mickey Mouse watch depends on many factors, including the brand, the age of the watch, its condition, and its functionality.

Ingersoll-Watersbury produced the first Mickey Mouse watch in 1933. This started the Mickey Mouse watch trend, and most Mickey Mouse watches produced until the 1970s were made by Ingersoll-Waterbury. The 1933 watch had a round dial and a decorative bezel.

Although Mickey Mouse wore white gloves until 1936, Mickey wears yellow gloves on the dial of the original watch. The strap is black and decorated with silver Mickey Mouse cutouts. The 5 and 7 are located outside of Mickey's feet, not on or below them.

The watch runs on a World War I pin-lever movement. The first watch also featured a subdial with three tiny Mickeys chasing each other across the dial. Ingersoll-Waterbury manufactured the very first Mickey Mouse wristwatch and sold it at the Chicago Century of Progress Exposition. They also designed a matching pocket watch.

The Ingersoll trademark appears on the dials. Ingersoll, now Timex, owned the rights to produce Mickey Mouse watches from 1933 to 1971. So if your watch dates before 1971, it's probably an Ingersoll. In the 1960s and beyond, more and more brands embraced the Mickey Mouse trend.

Although the watch sold for $3.25 when it was first introduced in 1933, it is worth significantly more today. An original 1933 Ingersoll-Waterbury Mickey Mouse watch was auctioned in 2016 and fetched between $1,500 and $2,500. The 1934 watch looked very similar to the 1933 watch, although the 5 and 7 on the watch were visible either outside or inside Mickey's feet.

The watches from 1935 to 1937 underwent some minor changes. For example, the newer watches feature the inscription "USA" on the dial between Mickey's buttocks and the number 8 .

The numbers 5 and 7 appear on Mickey's feet, not on the outside or inside like earlier clocks. Clocks produced between 1934 and 1937 had round cases.

Some watches from 1937 had a rectangular case. Some watches from 1937 had a rectangular case. While some watches from that year still resembled previous models, others were quite different. They had simple rectangular cases instead of round ones, and the three tiny Mickey figures were removed from the subdial and replaced with a simple seconds hand.

The long sides of the rectangular case were slightly curved, but the short sides were straight. Earlier Mickey watches were intended for boys, but now there were also watches for girls with thinner metal bracelets.

Between 1938 and 1942, the watch lost its subdial. Aside from the loss of the subdial, the watch remained largely unchanged. The case remained rectangular, but now featured five decorative notches on each long side. Mickey watches from the 1930s and 1940s can be worth between $150 and $1,500, depending on their condition and functionality.

In 1942, Ingersoll, the original manufacturer of Mickey Mouse watches, was acquired by US Time, but the Ingersoll trademark continued to appear on the dial. After US Time's acquisition of Ingersoll, some Mickey Mouse watches were gold-plated until the 1960s.

In 1948, a luminous dial was introduced. The luminous dial was created by applying radium to the dial, causing it to glow. Luminous dials were a popular feature of many watches in the 20th century and remain so today (although radium was discontinued in the 1970s due to its extreme radioactivity).

If you own a vintage watch with a luminous dial and are worried about possible radioactivity exposure, rest assured: The EPA has determined that luminous dials made with radium are not dangerous unless you disassemble the watch.

The watch from the 1950s has red numerals. The numerals on the dials of the previous watches were black. Otherwise, the watch was exactly the same as in the 1940s: rectangular case, luminous dial, and yellow-gloved hands indicating the time.

7 The 1960s watch does not have Mickey Mouse. In the last decade that Ingersoll (at that time US Time) held the license for the Mickey Mouse watch, Mickey was completely removed from the watch.

Instead, the "Mickey Mouse" logo appeared in capital letters on the dial. During this decade, the case changed from rectangular to round. US Time was renamed Timex in July 1969.

If your watch plays music, it might be a Lorus Mickey Mouse watch. Ingersoll discontinued production of Mickey Mouse watches in 1971, and Japanese manufacturer Seiko licensed the character to release its own Mickey Mouse watch line in the 1980s and 1990s under the Lorus, Pulsar, and Seiko brands.

Lorus Mickey Music watches cost between $300 and $2,000, depending on their rarity and condition. Lorus has released a range of limited-edition watches for men and women, but the music watch is among the rarest and most valuable.

This 1970s Seiko watch features both Mickey and Minnie. This seven-jewel mechanical wristwatch was developed for Seiko's Japanese market and produced in only 500 pieces.

This makes it extremely rare and, with a value of over $475, very valuable. Seiko also produced a 14-karat gold Mickey Mouse watch in the 1990s, in a limited edition of 500 pieces.

Gérald Genta's luxurious Mickey Mouse watches debuted in 1984. The original, delicate quartz Genta Round Retro Fantasy watch featured a mother-of-pearl dial, a laughing Mickey Mouse on the dial, a jumping hour display, and retrograde minutes. At the time of its release, the white gold version of the watch was the most expensive Mickey Mouse watch of all time.

When the celebrated watchmaker Genta presented his “high-class” Mickey Mouse watches at a Swiss trade fair in 1984, he was asked by the organizers to remove them from his exhibition.

In protest, Genta grabbed his watches and stormed out. Genta's Round Retro Fantasy watches feature Mickey and other characters from the Disney universe. The cartoons are usually depicted playing sports like baseball or golf.

The brand of a watch influences its value. There are many Mickey Mouse watches from various manufacturers. However, a watch from Ingersoll-Waterbury, Timex, Genta, Seiko, Bradley, Invicta, Swatch, or Gucci is likely to be more valuable than, say, a Target-brand watch (no offense, Target).

It is unclear whether Rolex actually produced Mickey Mouse watches or whether "Mickey Mouse Rolexes" are actually just Rolex watches with Mickey dials added later.[8] Genta's Mickey Mouse watches are the most valuable of all. Some are worth over $30,000 due to their quality and limited edition.

The older the watch, the higher its value. Depending on its functionality and condition, an original Ingersoll-Waterbury Mickey Mouse watch from 1933 can cost anywhere from a few hundred to $1,500.

Although "antique" and "vintage" are often used interchangeably, the word "antique" actually refers only to items that are a century or older. Therefore, original Ingersoll-Waterbury Mickey Mouse watches are simply "vintage" until 2033.


citizenside.com writes on the subject:
Recognizing Genuine Mickey Mouse Watches As with any collectible, there is a risk of encountering fake or counterfeit Mickey Mouse watches. To ensure that you are purchasing an authentic piece, it is important to learn about the key signs of authenticity.
Here are some factors to consider when identifying genuine Mickey Mouse watches:
1. Brand reputation: Buy a Mickey Mouse watch from reputable and authorized retailers. Established brands and authorized dealers are more likely to sell genuine and authentic watches. Avoid purchasing from unknown sellers or questionable sources.
2. Logo and markings: Check the dial and strap for the official Disney logo and markings. The logo should be clear and concise and should not contain any inconsistencies or spelling mistakes. Pay attention to the quality of the engraving or embossing, as authentic watches are carefully crafted.
3. Serial numbers: Many luxury and high-quality Mickey Mouse watches have serial numbers engraved on the case or included in the papers. Research the specific watch model to determine if it has a serial number and have its authenticity confirmed by the manufacturer or a trusted expert.
4. Materials and workmanship: Examine the materials used. Original watches are usually made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel, precious metals or high-quality leather. Ensure consistent and precise workmanship, including smooth edges, well-aligned parts, and tight screws.
5. Movement and functionality: Original Mickey Mouse watches should have a reliable and precise movement. Look for reputable movement brands, such as Swiss movements, which are known for their accuracy and durability. The clock hands should move smoothly without jerking or delays.
6. Certificates and documents of authenticity: Some Mickey Mouse watches come with certificates or documents of authenticity confirming their origin and provenance. These certificates provide additional security for the authenticity of the watch. Be wary of watches without accompanying documentation, especially if you buy them from an unofficial source.
7. Price and unrealistic offers: While a fair price is important, beware of offers that sound too good to be true. Fake watches are often significantly cheaper than their originals. Research the market value of the Mickey Mouse watch you want and be wary of suspiciously cheap offers.
8. Seek expert advice: If you are unsure about the authenticity of a Mickey Mouse watch, it is advisable to consult a reputable watch expert or dealer. They have the knowledge and experience to detect fake watches and can help you verify the authenticity of your potential purchase.
By considering these factors and taking the necessary precautions when purchasing a Mickey Mouse watch, you will avoid counterfeits or replicas. Buy only from trusted sellers, check the logo and markings, serial numbers, materials and workmanship, look for a precise movement, value certificates of authenticity, pay attention to the price and, if in doubt, seek expert advice.
With an authentic Mickey Mouse watch, you not only own a valuable timepiece, but also a valuable piece of Disney history.
The History of Mickey Mouse Watches Mickey Mouse watches have a fascinating history spanning almost a century. Understanding the evolution and milestones of these legendary timepieces adds depth and appreciation to your collection.
Here's an overview of the history of Mickey Mouse watches. Early Years: Mickey Mouse made his wristwatch debut in 1933 when the Ingersoll-Waterbury Company released the first licensed Mickey Mouse watch. These watches featured a playful dial design with Mickey's hands serving as the timepiece, capturing the cartoon character's mood and spirit. Popularity and Expansion:
The success of the first Mickey Mouse watches led to an enormous surge in popularity. In the 1940s and 1950s, various watch brands, including Bradley, Timex and Lorus, began producing Mickey Mouse watches. These watches came in a variety of designs with different colors, materials, and strap options. Vintage-style collectibles:
Mickey Mouse watches from the 1930s to the 1970s are sought-after collector's items. Vintage watches from this era, including the original Ingersoll and Bradley models, are known for their nostalgic charm and historical significance. The design elements and materials of these vintage watches often reflect the trends and aesthetics of their respective era.
Technological progress: In the second half of the 20th century, Mickey Mouse watches evolved with advances in watchmaking technology. Digital watches with LCD displays featuring Mickey's cartoon character were very popular in the 1980s.
In recent years, smartwatch versions of Mickey Mouse watches have been introduced, combining technology with the charm of the classic character. Special editions and collaborations:
Over the years, Disney has released special edition Mickey Mouse watches to commemorate milestones, anniversaries, and significant events. These limited edition watches often feature unique design elements such as engravings, special dials or exclusive packaging, making them extremely sought after by collectors.
Worldwide popularity: Mickey Mouse watches have become a global phenomenon, delighting Disney fans and watch collectors worldwide. From Europe to Asia, Mickey Mouse watches find their way onto the wrists of enthusiasts who appreciate the charm, nostalgia, and timeless appeal of these iconic timepieces.
Knowing the history of Mickey Mouse watches allows you to appreciate the legacy and significance of these watches in the Disney universe and pop culture. It also helps to identify vintage watches, understand design influences, and recognize the value and rarity of special editions.
Whether you collect Mickey Mouse watches or simply admire their iconic status, their history adds an extra layer of fascination to these beloved timepieces.
Source: Dev Murphy / wikihow.com, citizensside.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Back to blog

Leave a comment