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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 and original Breguet hands look incredible on this piece. The dial features Roman numerals and a gothic-style Elgin banner signature, with the Elgin name set between two gothic motifs. The outer minute track is marked boldly at five-minute intervals, with an inverted triangle at each 15-minute position. It is a subtle detail that reinforces the strong proportions of the dial and makes it especially easy to read. The original Breguet hands add a level of refinement that pairs perfectly with the Roman numeral layout and gothic signature, giving the entire dial a very balanced, late nineteenth century feel. This 1899 Elgin is powered by the Grade 133, a movement produced for only a short period between 1896 and 1899 across just 30 runs, making this one of the last examples ever produced. The grade is known for its distinctive mainspring barrel, decorated with an intricate geometric motif that reflects early Elgin artistry of the period. Every movement component was carefully restored by hand. Screws and steel hardware were thermally blued by hand using traditional methods to improve corrosion resistance while adding depth and contrast (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand polished to restore their original golden tone. Altogether, this is a thoughtfully restored example of late nineteenth century Elgin watchmaking, combining a standout dial with period correct finishing and careful handwork throughout.
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: 300 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: 1899
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel
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
Serial Number: 7718244
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.