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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.
This piece was built around an intentional color study. We selected a deep-blue strap specifically to echo the light-blue perimeter of the dial, and anchored both elements with the warm copper-rich tones of our 40 mm Heritage Bronze case. The palette was chosen on purpose — dial, strap, and case working together to create a cohesive presentation that only becomes richer as the bronze patinas. The dial is one of the most visually dynamic designs we have sourced from early Elgin production. A soft light-blue outer ring frames the dial, divided from the white enamel center by alternating bands of silver and gold. The Roman numerals sit within this layered structure, giving the layout its clean, architectural symmetry. A dotted minute track completes the design with subtle rhythm. Inside is Elgin Grade 216, a 15 jewel movement introduced in 1900, placing this example in the very first year of production. The exposed mainspring barrel and sweeping damaskeening patterns give the movement incredible light play. During restoration in our Little Rock workshop, every screw and piece of hardware was hand-thermally blued (read more here), and the gear train, jewel settings, and balance assembly were individually hand-polished to bring back their original warmth and reflectivity. A rare multi-tone dial, a first-year Grade 216, and a color palette intentionally curated to highlight its best features—early American watchmaking, thoughtfully elevated into a modern 40 mm format.
The movement is housed in our custom 40 mm Heritage Bronze conversion case, precision-machined from solid bronze containing 93 percent copper. This alloy develops a warm, evolving patina over time, making every case unique to its wearer. At 40 mm, the proportions offer a balanced, versatile fit that works well on a wide range of wrists. Crown and caseback gaskets provide a secure seal, and each case is tested to 50 meters of water resistance, though removal before swimming or showering is recommended. Fully serviced, regulated, and cased in bronze that will continue to deepen in character, this watch is ready for years of reliable wear.
Watch Performance
Accuracy: +/- 10 seconds per day
Amplitude: 275 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 (flawless)
Jewels: 15 jewels
Case Diameter: 40 mm
Front Crystal: Domed sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat sapphire
Case Material: Heritage bronze (will patina)
Lug width: 20 mm
Lug to Lug: 48 mm
Height: 13 mm
Original Case Included: No
Serial Number: 8962722
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.