Vintage brass pocket watch with engraved initials
Description
I found a vintage Elgin pocket watch this morning around 8:15am in the alley behind the Old Town Pawn Shop on North 3rd Street in Northeast SD. The brass case has a floral engraving and shows some wear, about 2 inches across. The white dial has Roman numerals and blue steel hands, and there's an inscription on the inner lid: 'J.R.S. 1892'. It also came with a brown leather fob chain and a faded red velvet pouch. It's a collectible piece, and I'd love to get it back to its owner, especially if someone recognizes the initials or the tiny stamp on the back—happy to meet near the East Market building to return it.
Approximate found location
Pin shows an approximate area, not the exact spot — to protect privacy.
How to safely return this item
A short checklist to protect you and the item during the handoff.
Verify the owner before handing it back
- Ask the claimant for a specific identifying detail before confirming.
- If valuable, ask for a photo with matching ID, receipt, or original packaging.
- Never post the precise location publicly. Share it only with a verified owner.
- Do not accept payment to return it. That is a red flag for a scam claim.
Meet in a safe, public place
- Police stations, café entrances, transport hubs, and shop foyers all work.
- Meet during daylight hours where there is CCTV and foot traffic.
- Avoid private homes, car parks at night, or isolated locations.
Bring someone with you
- Tell a friend or family member where you are meeting and when.
- Share your live location with them during the handoff.
- For high-value items, consider contacting your local police station for advice first.
Keep communication on lostandfound.io
- Use the in-app message thread so there is a record if something goes wrong.
- Do not move to WhatsApp, SMS, or email until you have exchanged a verifying detail.
- Never share bank details, government ID numbers, or copies of your ID.