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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 1899 in Elgin, this piece brings together two of our favorite elements: a multichromatic porcelain-enamel dial and a near-flawless original gilt movement finish. Unlike nickel damaskeening, gilt finishes are extraordinarily sensitive to touch, moisture, and time. Even light handling can dull the surface or leave faint marks, which is why so few examples have survived unscathed like this one from the 1800s. Restoring gilt to its original appearance requires steady hands, precision, and patience. At Frett & Co., every step of the restoration process is completed entirely by hand. We have developed our own in-house methods to gently revive gilt without mechanical abrasion, restoring the original depth, tone, and factory-like luster while preserving every engraving and plate contour. On the dial side, the multichromatic porcelain-enamel dial is filled with incredible detail. The numerals are framed by half-golden circles, while the minute track features golden plumes between each marker. The symmetry is remarkable and creates a beautiful viewing experience. On the movement side, each jewel setting, gear train, balance, and balance weight was individually hand polished to enhance the natural golden tones of the movement. All screws and steel hardware were thermally blued by hand over an open flame, a traditional watchmaking technique that strengthens the steel while producing a rich, iridescent blue hue that contrasts beautifully against the gilt plates (read more here). The original Louis XIV hands were left unrestored and provide exceptional contrast and definition against the dial.
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: 310 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: 1899
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: 7673456
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.