Unravelling the Personal and Historical Value of Frederick Douglass's Prized Timepiece

For lovers of vintage watches, often discussions revolve around their potential value in the present market, with little thought dedicated to the emotional resonance and the personal worth they might have held for their original owners. One such story of personal significance is that of Frederick Douglass’s first watch, and the immense value he placed on it.

This inanimate object represents much more than just a measure of time. Bought in Belfast, Ireland, in 1846 for $40 - a considerable sum at the time - Douglass acquired this watch eight years after he had escaped the brutal bondage of slavery. The dial is unsigned, it is encased in silver and comes with a gold chain. An artifact that discreetly holds a chronicle of resilience, self-determination, and most importantly, freedom.

The silver watch is displayed alongside his Melton wool tailcoat, British top hat, and sunglasses as part of The Met’s exhibition named ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style.’ The exhibit retraces the legacy of Black elegance, of dressing with intention and self-possession. It was in these portraits, many of which he was the most photographed American of the 19th century, that his pocket watch chain is clearly seen.

This watch serves as more than merely an accessory to his meticulously maintained persona. It stands as a symbol of his journey, his rise from enslavement to becoming one of the greatest orators and writers of his time. It is this piece of horological history that aligns Douglass’s personal struggle and triumph with the tangible ticking of time, leaving behind a legacy etched in every second counted by the unassuming watch.