Unique Piece 1870 PC Wristwatch
The unique piece, the 1870 PC (“Paul Cornell”), was created in partnership with Roland G. Murphy, known for crafting America’s finest timepieces since 1992. The 1870 PC is a tribute to the Cornell Watch Company’s highest grade pocket watches from the 19th century and it features a traditionally crafted double-sunk Grand Feu enamel dial and thermal blued hands inspired by the original. Inside, the hand-decorated Schwarz Etienne ASE 200 automatic movement features 33 jewels, a micro-rotor, and an 86-hour power reserve. The watch’s 39mm case is crafted from a mix of brushed and polished 316L stainless steel and is hand assembled, rigorously tested, and warrantied by the RGM Watch Company.

Paul Cornell Pocket Watch
This gilt, full-plate, size-18 pocket watch was made entirely in Chicago and dates to 1873. It was intended for use as a high-grade railroad watch and features the original double-sunk Grand Feu enamel dial, thermal blued hands, and a sterling silver stemwinding case. The movement is signed “Paul Cornell” and is the most elaborately decorated and precise movement grade originally offered by the Cornell Watch Company, featuring 19 jewels, some with gold settings, a lever escapement, and an index patent regulator.

Paul Cornell was not only the namesake of the original Cornell Watch Company, but also the founder of Hyde Park, Chicago. Fewer than 10 “Paul Cornell” grade pocket watches are known to exist today. This specific example comes from the Cornell Watch Company’s private collection.

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation would like to thank John and Chrissy Warren of Cornell Watch Company, and Roland G. Murphy for their generous time and donation.

The Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation
Through great loss has come inspiration. At just 15 years old, Brian LaViolette’s life was claimed in a swimming accident, and on the day of his funeral, his family kept a promise to honor his name and memory by helping others. Founded in 1992, the Brian LaViolette Scholarship Foundation awards deserving college-bound students with scholarships to further their lives and education. Since then, the foundation is proud to have presented 1,160 scholarships to deserving individuals across the globe.