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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 timepiece is housed in our 40 mm Heritage Bronze case, machined from solid bronze with a copper content of 93 percent. The alloy delivers warm rose-gold tones that slowly develop a natural patina, ensuring no two pieces will ever age the same. From the coined edge to the proportioned lugs and bronze crown, nearly every surface is designed to evolve with wear. The result is a case with real character, ideal for collectors who appreciate a watch that matures over time. We paired this case with a WWI-style trench watch aesthetic. The porcelain-enamel dial features a stark white background with bold black numerals for instant legibility, along with a bold “ELGIN” signature in block lettering that feels built for function over flourish. Even the handset reinforces that military-era styling — a rare spade-and-whip pairing more reminiscent of the practical trench watches worn during WWI than the ornate designs commonly seen on turn-of-the-century pocket watches. Behind the dial is Elgin’s Grade 216, a 15-jewel movement completed in 1904 during the final year of production for the grade. Produced between 1900 and 1904, the movement is known for its exposed mainspring barrel and dramatic damaskeening that adds depth across the plates. Every detail was carefully restored by hand. Screws and steel hardware were thermally blued over an open flame using traditional methods to improve corrosion resistance while adding vibrant contrast (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand polished to restore their original golden tone. From the Heritage Bronze case to the trench style porcelain-enamel dial and fully restored movement, this piece represents American watchmaking at its most honest, mechanical, and historical.
The movement is set in a custom 40 mm conversion case crafted from solid bronze. 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: 1904
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel (excellent)
Jewels: 15 jewels
Case Diameter: 40 mm
Front Crystal: Domed sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat sapphire
Case Material: Bronze (will patina)
Lug width: 20 mm
Lug to Lug: 48 mm
Height: 13 mm
Serial Number: 10486806
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.