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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 piece features a rare variation of the iconic “Blind Man” porcelain-enamel dial design. Unlike a standard dial, it uses oversized, high-contrast numerals that make the time exceptionally easy to read. The specific numeral font is especially uncommon in the oversized “Blind Man” format, giving the dial a distinctive character rarely seen on railroad-era pieces. Bold five-minute markers along the outer minute track add another layer of contrast while giving the dial a crisp, balanced appearance. Originally developed for maximum legibility during the railroad era, the design feels remarkably natural in a compact 36 mm format. Beneath the dial is Elgin’s Grade 318, a movement produced for only a short period between 1904 and 1907. The grade is known for its elegant damaskeening and enamel-filled lettering. Every movement component was carefully restored by hand. Screws and steel hardware were thermally blued using traditional methods 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 tone. At just 36 mm, this piece carries the proportions and wearability of a modern dress watch while preserving the character of a vintage 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: 300 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: 1906
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: 12130789
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.