Germania and her Shield?

[45Auto]

On the back of an otherwise ordinary Swiss, key-wind watch of about 1860 - 1870 vintage is this engraving. I was informed that the name of this well armed beauty is "Germania." Who was Germania? What is the significance of the double headed eagle on the shield she is holding?

Thanks,

Greg

[Tom Y]

Germania is the spirit of Germany, akin to our Liberty. The double headed eagle is the symbol of Austria or the Holy Roman Empire. Possibly a reunification propaganda motif comparing the new Germany to the HRE?

[Fred Borgmann]

Germania is the spirit of Germany, akin to our Liberty. The double headed eagle is the symbol of Austria or the Holy Roman Empire. Possibly a reunification propaganda motif comparing the new Germany to the HRE?

The double headed eagle (a leftover from the Holy Roman Empire and Austria) was commonly used to represent Germany before 1871 when the Prussian eagle took over.

[Ralph A]

Germania

What a broad. We dated in school. Hard to get her outta that iron breastplate without cutting yourself. Big hit at the frat partys.