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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 porcelain-enamel dial on this piece takes center stage. Elegant golden motifs frame each Arabic numeral, while the outer minute track features raised golden dots in between every five-minute interval. The Elgin signature appears in all capitals, supported by a blend of gold and silver inlay that gives the dial depth and dimension. At 12, 3, and 9, golden triangles add balance and symmetry. Despite its complexity, the design feels harmonious and exceptionally refined. The Louis XIV–style hands introduce another layer of detail and elegance, complementing the dial’s rich ornamentation. This 1896 Elgin represents the very first year—and the very first production run—of Grade 133. Only thirty runs were ever produced between 1896 and 1899, and this example comes from run one of thirty, making it a truly significant early piece for collectors. The Grade 133 is admired for its distinctive mainspring barrel, engraved with an intricate geometric motif that showcases early Elgin artistry. Every component of the movement has been carefully refinished by hand. Screws and hardware were thermally blued over an open flame—a traditional watchmaking technique that enhances contrast, color, and corrosion resistance (read more here). Jewel settings, the gear train, balance, and balance weights were each hand-polished to restore their original golden luster. Taken together—the inaugural production year, early-run provenance, and richly detailed dial—this Elgin Grade 133 stands as both a mechanical achievement and an artistic showcase of 19th-century American horology.
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 (excellent)
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: 6041964
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.