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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.
The porcelain enamel dial on this piece stands apart immediately. Four gold-inlaid flowers radiate around the central pinion, each set with a deep red center. That same red detail is echoed at the 15-minute marks along the minute track, creating a subtle continuity across the dial. The golden flowers catch the light with real depth, giving the entire surface a dynamic, almost dimensional quality. At the center, Elgin’s signature sits within a finely executed banner motif. The result is a dial that feels vibrant with every element working in balance. Beneath the dial is Elgin’s Grade 133 movement, completed in Elgin, Illinois, in 1898. This caliber was produced only briefly between 1896 and 1899, entirely within the 1800s. The mainspring barrel features Geneva striping, adding a layer of contrast against the surrounding nickel-finished plates. Every component was fully refinished in our Little Rock, Arkansas workshop. Screws and steel hardware were thermally blued one at a time over an open flame (read more here), while the jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand polished to restore their original golden tone. The steel hands were brought back to a mirror finish to remove corrosion, then thermally colored to achieve a deep, iridescent blue. The final result carries the color, detail, and craftsmanship of the late nineteenth century into a piece built for modern wear.
The movement is set in 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: 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: 1898
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel
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
Serial Number: 7433535
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.