Lot 715

Bell Trading Post Necklace, Le Gant Pocketwatch

Estimate: $100 - $200

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$25,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000
Presented are two pieces of vintage jewelry. The first piece is a Bell Trading Post kachina, turquoise, glass necklace on a nickel silver stamped chain. The next piece is a Le Gant pocket watch. The system of trading posts in the arid southwest had an enormous impact on how the area was shaped, both economically and in the minds and imaginations of travelers to the area. One such post was established by Jack Michelson and his wife, Mildred, in 1932 in the growing city of Albuquerque. Mildred’s maiden name was Bell, so the Michelsons chose the name Bell Trading Post for their business. The post was located along the new highway known as Route 66. Michelson hoped this spot would be a boon in establishing his business as a place where tourists could find locally made Native American jewelry. The beginning years were a struggle, but the location did help the trading post hold on, particularly when Roosevelt’s New Deal created the CCC and truckers were hitting the roads to transport goods. Bell Trading Post was in the right location to sell them souvenirs for their family back home. The necklace and chain are in fine condition, with no marring noted. It measures 2.5" L x 1.25" W approximately. The LeGant pocket watch was a trademark used by Montgomery Ward department stores for watches produced under contract for sale in their chain. The watches were initially made in Switzerland and bear 'Swiss Made' on their dials and movements. The Le Gant name was sold to Seiko in the early 1990's, and watches from that era specify 'Japan Mov't', etc. Production was later ceased. This is a vintage 1970's pocket watch. The case features two hunting dogs on the back and an elk hunting scene on the front. It appears to function as intended. It measures approximately 2" in diameter.
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