Image 1 of 17
Image 2 of 17
Image 3 of 17
Image 4 of 17
Image 5 of 17
Image 6 of 17
Image 7 of 17
Image 8 of 17
Image 9 of 17
Image 10 of 17
Image 11 of 17
Image 12 of 17
Image 13 of 17
Image 14 of 17
Image 15 of 17
Image 16 of 17
Image 17 of 17
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 new 40 mm Heritage Bronze conversion case, carefully machined from solid bronze with a copper content of 93%. This alloy provides warm, rose-gold hues that will slowly develop a natural patina over time—ensuring no two pieces will ever age the same. From the coined-finish to the proportioned lugs and bronze crown, nearly every surface is designed to take on its own evolving character, making this case ideal for collectors who appreciate a timepiece that matures with wear. To complement the release of this special case, we paired it with a Grade 121 movement, porcelain-enamel dial, and original Louis XIV-style hands—a combination chosen specifically to match the warmth and evolving beauty of bronze. Completed in 1896 in Elgin, Illinois, this timepiece represents the final year of Grade 121 production. Its 15-jewel movement, manufactured between 1892 and 1896, features an exposed mainspring barrel with a geometric motif and dramatic damaskeening that plays with light across the plates. Every detail has been meticulously restored: screws and hardware were thermally blued by hand over an open flame, a traditional process that strengthens the metal while adding iridescent color (read more here). Jewel settings, the gear train, balance, and balance weights were each hand-polished to restore their golden glow. The porcelain-enamel dial remains in excellent condition, framed by elegant numerals and centered with a refined Elgin logo. Golden motifs are spread across the dial, while the untouched Louis XIV hands, preserved in their warm golden finish, add period-correct elegance. Together, the movement, dial, and hands create a cohesive presentation that feels purpose-built for the evolving character of the bronze case—a rare survivor from the turn of the century, now prepared to be worn and appreciated for generations to come.
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: 1896
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: 6357258
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.