Image 1 of 15
Image 2 of 15
Image 3 of 15
Image 4 of 15
Image 5 of 15
Image 6 of 15
Image 7 of 15
Image 8 of 15
Image 9 of 15
Image 10 of 15
Image 11 of 15
Image 12 of 15
Image 13 of 15
Image 14 of 15
Image 15 of 15
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 has a striking seafoam green center that shifts subtly as light moves across the surface. At center sits the Elgin signature, anchored by a refined gold motif. The green center radiates outward toward the numerals, each framed by a combination of silver and gold flourishes. The result is a dial that feels both vibrant and thoughtfully balanced. Along the perimeter, a clean minute track is punctuated by inverted triangles at each 15 minute interval, reinforcing both symmetry and legibility. Beneath the dial is Elgin’s Grade 216 movement, completed in Elgin, Illinois, in 1900, placing this example among the earliest runs of this 15 jewel caliber. Notably, the mainspring barrel has a gilt finish, introducing a warm contrast against the surrounding nickel-finished movement architecture. Every component was fully refinished in our Little Rock, Arkansas workshop. Screws and steel hardware were thermally blued individually over an open flame (read more here), while the jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were hand polished to restore their original golden tone. The original Louis XIV style hands remain in their untouched golden finish, tying seamlessly into the dial’s multichromatic palette. The result is a piece that carries the color, craftsmanship, and character of the early twentieth century into a format 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: 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: 8617072
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.