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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.
One of a kind dial on this Elgin from 1900. The porcelain-enamel dial was commissioned by the St. Charles Condensing Company in St. Charles, Illinois, USA, a major condensed milk producer in the early 1900s. Completed by Elgin, it stands as a rare piece of American advertising history. The detail is exceptional, with crisp lettering that reads “Unsweetened St. Charles Cream.” The hands were mirror polished to remove corrosion, then thermally blued over an alcohol lamp to provide striking contrast against the white enamel dial. Beneath it, the movement was completed in 1900 in Elgin, Illinois and represents the first year of production for the Grade 216. This 15 jewel movement, produced from 1900 through 1904, features an exposed mainspring barrel and dramatic damaskeening that adds depth and motion across the plates. Every detail of the movement has been brought back to life. Screws and hardware were thermally blued by hand over an open flame, a traditional process that enhances corrosion resistance while creating a vibrant iridescent finish (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were each individually hand polished to restore their warm golden glow. A rare survivor from the turn of the century, this Elgin captures both the craftsmanship of early American watchmaking and a unique glimpse into advertising of the era.
The movement is set in a custom 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: 8562997
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.