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Elgin National Watch Co. was in operation from 1864-1968 and was an American pocket watch manufacturer. Manufacturing of Elgin watches took place at their facility in Elgin, Illinois.
This timepiece features the iconic “Blind Man” porcelain-enamel railroad dial. Unlike a standard railroad dial, this design uses oversized, high-contrast numerals that make the time exceptionally easy to read. Red five-minute markers along the outer minute track add another layer of contrast, giving the dial a vibrant, multichromatic appearance. Originally designed for maximum legibility during the railroad era, the bold layout feels remarkably natural in the compact 36 mm format. The original hands were not restored and retain their original heat-blued color applied by Elgin at the time of manufacture. Against the bright white porcelain-enamel dial, the blued hands provide exceptional contrast while highlighting the clarity and legibility that defined American railroad watches of the era.
Beneath the dial is Elgin’s Grade 318, a movement produced between 1904 and 1907. Dating to 1904, this example represents one of the earliest years of production for the grade. The movement is distinguished by its raised 15th jewel chaton and elegant snailing on the ratchet and crown wheels. Every component of the movement was carefully restored by hand. Screws and steel hardware were thermally blued over an alcohol lamp to improve corrosion resistance while adding depth and contrast (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand polished to restore their original golden brilliance. At just 36 mm, this piece carries the proportions and wearability of a modern dress watch while preserving the unmistakable character of a century-old American movement.
Housed in our 36 mm conversion case, this timepiece is designed to preserve the elegance of its vintage aesthetic while offering the refined proportions of a modern dress watch. Crafted from surgical-grade 316L stainless steel, the case features both caseback and crown gaskets for enhanced durability and water resistance up to 50 meters (though we recommend removing the watch before water activities). At just 36 mm across with a slim profile, the case wears compact, elegant, and exceptionally comfortable on the wrist. Every piece is fully serviced, meticulously tested, and built for reliable everyday wear.
Watch Performance
Accuracy: +/- 10 seconds per day
Amplitude: 270 degrees
Beat Error: 1.5 ms
Frequency: 18,000 (5 beats per second)
Power Reserve: 24-30 hours
Complication: Sub second hand
Watch Specifications
Manufacture: Elgin
Location: Elgin, Illinois
Year Manufactured: 1904
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel
Jewels: 15 jewels
Case Diameter: 36 mm
Front Crystal: Domed sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat sapphire
Case Material: 316L stainless
Lug width: 20 mm
Lug to Lug: 44 mm
Height: 10 mm
Serial Number: 10978559
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.