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Illinois Watch Co. was in operation from 1869-1948 and produced some of the most renowned railroad-grade movements ever manufactured. Watches were produced in their factory in Springfield, Illinois.
This WWI-era Illinois timepiece features an original porcelain-enamel dial in the traditional railroad style, with crisp numerals, a clearly defined subdial, and a minute track accented by red indices around the perimeter. This dial design was favored on the rail for its exceptional legibility. The original plum hands provide striking contrast against the bright white enamel dial, adding both character and visual clarity. Powering the watch is Illinois' Grade 204, a movement produced for only a few years between 1914 and 1917, with just 3,100 examples manufactured. The grade features an exposed gear train and distinctive web-like damaskeening across the plates. 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). On this piece, we were also able to thermally color the crown and ratchet wheels, creating an exceptional display of blue throughout the movement. 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 and craftsmanship 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: 295 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: Illinois Watch Company
Location: Springfield, Illinois
Year Manufactured: 1915 (WWI era)
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel
Jewels: 17 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: 2744521
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.