The Auburndale Watch Company: First American Attempt Toward the Dollar Watch

A historical account written in the mid-20th century. The book examines the early aspirations of American watchmaking, focusing on the challenges and failures associated with producing an affordable, reliable dollar watch. It details the innovative attempts made by pioneers like Jason R. Hopkins and William B. Fowle and provides insight into the mechanical designs and production strategies that led to the company's eventual downfall. The book unfolds the story of the Auburndale Watch Company, which aimed to revolutionize the watch industry by creating a low-cost timepiece while maintaining accuracy. It discusses the original inventions, especially the unique rotary mechanism developed by Hopkins, and the subsequent improvements that were attempted under the influence of various partners and financial backers. Despite the ambition and some mechanical achievements of the Auburndale watch, the company ultimately struggled with production intricacies, financial instability, and strong competition, leading to its decline. The narrative serves as a reflection on the perilous nature of pioneering enterprises and the lessons learned from unmet market expectations and poor planning.