Take a moment and picture a pocket watch. Are you thinking of a hunting case watch with elaborate relief decorations and an engraved monogram? A minimalist open-faced watch with a 14K gold case? Maybe a chain and a fancy fob? One thing is safe to assume: The watch probably tells time with hands on a dial. “Jump hour” watches like the one pictured here show that isn’t always the case. (Yes, this one has a seconds subdial, but the jump hour mechanism tells the hours and minutes.)

The jump hour, or jumping hour, watch movement was patented in 1883 by Josef Pallweber, an Austrian engineer. This new type of mechanism included rotating discs with the numerals for the hours and minutes. Windows in the watch face reveal the appropriate numeral. Instead of the familiar hand sweeping the watch’s face in one fluid movement, the hours appear to “jump” from one discrete number to the next, like today’s digital timekeepers.

The jump hour mechanism was extremely complicated, so not many were made. They experienced a resurgence in the 1920s, when their sleek look and nod to advancing technology fit in with the art deco movement. Jump hour watches from any time are still rare. Unsurprisingly, they sell for high prices at auctions. This one, a Swiss watch with a gunmetal case from about 1900, had a presale estimate of $80 to $120 at an auction by Jeffrey S. Evans & Associates. It sold for $960, more than surpassing expectations.

* * *

Q: I have a small china doll. Its surface is rough and not glossy. The hair is sculpted with short curls and painted blond. The face is painted with blue eyes, and socks and shoes are painted on. The arms and legs are attached with wire. The only mark is the word “Germany” on the back. How old is it, and how much is it worth?

A: Your doll is made of bisque, an unglazed porcelain. Collectors call dolls like yours “all-bisque” to distinguish them from bisque-headed dolls, which are larger, mounted on bodies made of material like wood, leather, or composition, and usually have a maker’s mark. Sometimes small dolls like yours are called “penny dolls” or “dollhouse dolls.” Dolls were marked with the name of their country after 1891. All-bisque dolls were made up to the mid-20th century. Dolls like yours are usually worth about $20 to $30.

Unusual features, like a molded hat, or an identifiable maker can increase the value. There are many resources available for doll collecting. For more information, look for books like “The Collector’s Encyclopedia of Dolls” by Dorothy S., Elizabeth A., and Evelyn J. Coleman or Patricia Smith’s “Album of All-Bisque Dolls” at your library, or contact a collector’s club like the United Federation of Doll Clubs Inc. (ufdc.org) or a doll auction.

* * *

TIP: Vintage watches should be cleaned regularly, probably once a year.

* * *

Kovels answers readers’ questions sent to the column. Send a letter with one question describing the size, material (glass, pottery) and what you know about the item. Include only two pictures, the object and a closeup of any marks or damage. Be sure your name and return address are included. By sending a question, you give full permission for use in any Kovel product. Names, addresses or email addresses will not be published. We do not guarantee the return of photographs, but if a stamped envelope is included, we will try. Questions that are answered will appear in Kovels Publications. Write to Kovels, (Name of this newspaper), King Features Syndicate, 300 W. 57th Street, 15th Floor, New York, NY 10019 or email us at collectorsgallery@kovels.com.

* * *

CURRENT PRICES

Current prices are recorded from antiques shows, flea markets, sales and auctions throughout the United States. Prices vary in different locations because of local economic conditions.

Toy, train set, Lionel, The Liberty Special, electric, 027 gauge, box, 20 x 30 inches, $60.

Candelabrum, five-light, pierced scrolled arms, gilded, porcelain base, dark blue, portrait medallion, courting couple, paw feet, spelter, 16 1/2 inches, pair, $65