36 mm South Bend from 1911 with a Multichromatic Porcelain-enamel Dial

South Bend Watch Company was in operation from 1903–1929 and was an American pocket watch manufacturer. Manufacturing of South Bend watches took place at their facility in South Bend, Indiana.

We rarely come across intact South Bend examples, and with the company in operation for only a little more than 25 years, surviving pieces in exceptional condition are increasingly rare today. The original porcelain-enamel dial features a light pink center, with the South Bend logo rendered in an incredible Gothic font. Roman numerals are framed in elegant golden boxes, while the outer minute track provides exceptional clarity and legibility. The original Louis XIV–style hands provide excellent contrast against the dial and pair naturally with the warm golden accents throughout the design. This piece is powered by South Bend’s Grade 110, a movement produced for an exceptionally short period between 1911 and 1912. The grade is known for its distinctive three-finger bridge layout and exposed gear train. 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. American conversions can now be compact, low profile, and genuinely dress oriented. At just 36 mm, this piece carries the styling and proportions 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: South Bend Watch Company

• Location: South Bend, Indiana

• Year Manufactured: 1911

• 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: 677942

• Water Resistance: 50 meters

• Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty

All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.