40 mm Elgin Grade 133 from 1896 – First Year of Production

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 1896 Elgin marks the very first year—and the very first run—of Grade 133 production. Elgin completed only 30 runs of the 133 between 1896 and 1899, and this example comes from run one of thirty, making it a standout piece for collectors. The grade is known for its distinctive mainspring barrel, decorated with an intricate geometric motif unique to early Elgin craftsmanship. Later grades featured a refined barrel design, representing another expression of Elgin’s artistry. Every movement component was carefully refinished by hand. Screws and hardware received deep blue accents through precise hand-applied thermal treatment—a traditional watchmaking technique that enhances corrosion resistance, contrast, and overall visual appeal (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand-polished to restore their original golden sheen, while the hands retain their original heat-blued color. The porcelain-enamel dial is flawless, featuring highly legible numerals, an elegant Elgin signature, and a clean balanced layout. The outer minute track includes small triangular markers at 12, 3, 6, and 9, a subtle touch that ties the face together with excellent proportions. Taken together—the first year of production, the first of thirty runs, and the unique barrel finish—this Elgin Grade 133 is both historically significant and visually striking.

Housed in our expertly engineered 40 mm conversion case, this timepiece is designed to highlight the elegance of its vintage dial while offering one of the most wearable conversion cases available. Crafted from surgical-grade 316L stainless steel, the case features both caseback and crown gaskets for enhanced durability and water resistance up to 50 meters (though we recommend removing the watch before water activities). Every piece is fully serviced, meticulously tested, and prepared to accompany you on your next adventure.

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: 316L stainless

• Lug width: 20 mm

• Lug to Lug: 48 mm

• Height: 13 mm

• Original Case Included: No

• Serial Number: 6040395

• Water Resistance: 50 meters

• Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty

All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.