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.
At just 36 mm, this timepiece carries the styling and proportions of a modern dress watch while preserving the character of a vintage American movement. The original multichromatic porcelain-enamel dial features an intricate arrangement of white, blue, and gold, beautifully complemented by the original golden Louis XIV hands. A soft blue circular field surrounds the white enamel center, framed by an elaborate series of golden arches. Each arch terminates into a delicate floral motif with small golden stars positioned between. Elegant black Roman numerals provide striking contrast against the white enamel, while the Elgin signature sits at the center above a subtle golden flourish. The outer railroad-style minute track features bold inverted triangles at 15-minute intervals, with small golden circles in between each five minute interval. Despite its elaborate decoration, the dial maintains exceptional symmetry, proportion, and legibility. The combination of delicate gold ornamentation, subtle blue enamel, and crisp black numerals creates a remarkably cohesive design that captures the artistry and craftsmanship of early American watchmaking.
This 1907 Elgin is powered by the Grade 354, a movement produced between 1907 and 1917 making this one of the earliest examples ever manufactured. The grade is known for its distinctive damaskeening and elegant enamel lettering. Every movement component 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 tone. Altogether, this is a thoughtfully restored example of early 1900s Elgin watchmaking, combining an elegant dial with period-correct finishing and careful handwork throughout.
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: 1907
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: 12646318
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.

