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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 way this dial interacts with our Heritage Bronze case is the true highlight of this piece. The bronze alloy, with its 93 percent copper content, carries warm rose gold undertones that deepen with wear. Those tones echo the golden motifs on the porcelain enamel dial so naturally that the entire watch feels intentionally paired, despite being separated by more than a century. The golden and silver elements between each Roman numeral reflect gently off the bronze bezel, and the golden five minute plumes along the minute track pick up the same warmth. Even the silver motif beneath the Elgin signature adds a contrasting pop that makes the bronze appear richer by comparison. It is one of those pairings where the case does not just frame the dial — it elevates it. Inside is Elgins Grade 295 from 1904, a 15 jewel movement produced from 1904 to 1921 and long regarded as the company’s flagship 6 size workhorse. This example was fully refinished in our Little Rock, Arkansas workshop. Screws and steel hardware were thermally colored one at a time using slow, controlled heat to enhance contrast and corrosion resistance (read more here). Jewel settings, the gear train, balance, and balance weights were polished by hand to restore their original golden tone, and the restored heat blued hands tie the dial and movement together with a clean, period correct finish.
The movement is set in our 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 (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: 10732271
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.