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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.
Our 40 mm Heritage Bronze conversion case provides the foundation for this exceptional 1911 Elgin timepiece. Precision-machined from solid bronze containing 93 percent copper, the case boasts warm rose-gold undertones that deepen with time, developing a rich natural patina unique to each wearer. Every detail—from the coined-edge bezel to the proportioned lugs and bronze crown—was designed to evolve, creating a living finish that reflects both craftsmanship and character. The porcelain-enamel railroad dial commands attention with crisp Arabic numerals, a precise minute track, and the original Elgin signature. Preserved in remarkable condition more than a century later, the dial offers exceptional clarity and visual presence. Restored and thermally blued hands provide vivid contrast against the bright enamel surface and the warm tones of the bronze case. Powering the piece is Elgin’s 15-jewel Grade 295 movement, produced between 1904 and 1923 in Elgin, Illinois. The movement features an exposed mainspring barrel and intricate damaskeening—a testament to early 20th-century American craftsmanship. Each component was meticulously restored in our Little Rock workshop: jewel settings, the gear train, and balance assembly were hand-polished to revive their original golden brilliance, while every screw and hardware element was thermally blued over an open flame to enhance both visual depth and corrosion resistance (read more here). This timepiece pairs railroad-grade precision with modern engineering—an antique Elgin movement reborn in warm bronze, ready to evolve beautifully with wear and time.
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: 1911
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel (flawless)
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
Original Case Included: No
Serial Number: 15652268
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.