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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 1903. The porcelain-enamel dial follows the unique railroad style dial with highly legible numerals—but with a twist. While the watch was made by Elgin, the dial features London, Ontario branding. This was actually a private-label railroad dial produced for the Canadian market and retailed by jeweler C. H. Ward & Co. of London, Ontario. The piece represents a fascinating intersection of two entirely independent histories: Elgin's manufacturing expertise in Illinois and the retail presence of a Canadian jeweler operating in London, Ontario. Beneath the dial is a movement completed in 1903 in Elgin, Illinois. This 15-jewel movement, produced from 1900 through 1904, features an exposed mainspring barrel and damaskeening that creates remarkable depth and visual movement across the plates. Every detail of the movement has been brought back to life. Screws and steel 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 tone. A rare survivor from the turn of the century, this Elgin combines the craftsmanship of early American watchmaking with a unique glimpse into the private-label partnerships and regional retailers that helped shape the era. At 40 mm, it wears like a modern watch while preserving the character and history of an extraordinary original piece.
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: 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: 1903
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: 9989802
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.