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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.
The dial on this Elgin is something you typically only read about. It features an ultra-rare ornate branch script insignia, where each bold letter of ELGIN sprouts delicate, branching flourishes—almost like the logo is growing across the porcelain. Around the perimeter, Roman numerals sit within individual golden rings, and the minute track uses dots at each five-minute mark. The layout feels balanced and elegant, and that striking Elgin signature anchors everything perfectly. Inside is Elgin Grade 216, completed in Elgin, Illinois in 1900—the very first year this 15 jewel movement entered production (1900 to 1904). The exposed mainspring barrel and damaskeening patterns give the plates depth and shimmer as the light shifts. The movement was fully refinished in our Little Rock, Arkansas workshop. All screws and steel hardware were thermally blued by hand over an open flame (read more here). Jewel settings, the gear train, balance assembly, and balance weights were individually hand-polished to restore their warm golden glow. The original Louis XIV hands were also polished by hand back to their rich gold tone, and they look exceptional against this rare dial. A true survivor with a one-of-a-kind Elgin insignia, original golden hands, and a meticulously restored movement—this piece brings forward the artistry of American watchmaking and puts it back where it belongs: on the wrist for another century.
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 (excellent)
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: 8564842
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.