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 is striking, with a light blue center that immediately draws the eye. At the center sits the Elgin signature with a delicate silver motif just beneath. The blue center radiates outward toward Roman numerals framed by elegant silver flourishes that are placed beneath each numeral, creating a beautifully segmented design. The result is a dial that feels both captivating and thoughtfully structured. Along the perimeter runs a minute track, punctuated by silver plumes at five minute intervals. This detail adds rhythm to the layout, keeping the dial highly legible. Behind the dial is Elgin’s Grade 216 movement, completed in Elgin, Illinois, in 1900—one of the earliest years this 15 jewel caliber was produced. The exposed mainspring barrel and intricate damaskeening give the plates depth and motion as light shifts across the movement. 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 hue. The original Louis XIV style hands remain in their untouched golden finish, adding another layer of early twentieth century character. With its multichromatic dial, original golden hands, and carefully restored movement, this piece carries the artistry of its era into a new century on the wrist.
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: 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: 1900
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: 8662152
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.

