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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.
Completed in 1902 in Elgin, Illinois, this timepiece showcases one of the most visually dynamic dials we’ve encountered from the early 1900s. The design layers color and texture with remarkable precision — a soft light-blue ring encircles the dial’s perimeter, separated from the white enamel center by intricate bands of silver and gold. The Roman numerals appear to float within this silver and gold framework, giving the dial an architectural balance rarely seen in American watchmaking. Subtle dotted minute markers complete the composition, lending both rhythm and symmetry to the design. The 15-jewel Elgin Grade 216 movement beneath is every bit as impressive. Produced between 1900 and 1904, this caliber is recognized for its exposed mainspring barrel and beautifully executed damaskeening — a pattern that catches light with every shift of the wrist. During restoration, each screw and piece of hardware was thermally blued by hand (read more here), while the gear train, jewel settings, and balance assembly were individually hand-polished to recover their original sheen. The result is a movement that gleams with depth and warmth, harmonizing perfectly with the dial’s light-blue and gold palette. Elegant, vibrant, and unmistakably Elgin — this 1902 conversion celebrates the height of American artistry and mechanical precision in a form ready to be worn today.
The movement is set in a our 40 mm conversion case crafted from surgical-grade 316L stainless steel. This size offers a balanced fit on the wrist, making it one of the most versatile proportions available in any conversion. The case is built with crown and caseback gaskets, tested to 50 meters of water resistance, though removal before swimming or showering is recommended. Fully serviced and regulated, this watch is ready for years of reliable wear and appreciation.
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: 1902
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel (excellent)
Jewels: 15 jewels
Case Diameter: 40 mm
Front Crystal: Domed sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat sapphire
Case Material: 316L stainless
Lug width: 20 mm
Lug to Lug: 48 mm
Height: 13 mm
Original Case Included: No
Serial Number: 9436186
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.