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 come together beautifully on this piece. Roman numerals frame the dial, while the Elgin signature sits within a detailed scroll motif—one of the most intricate and unique executions of the Elgin signature we have come across. Along the outer edge, the minute track is clearly defined, with bold five minute markers and inverted triangles at each quarter hour. The original Breguet hands add a level of refinement that pairs naturally with the Roman numeral layout. Beneath the dial is Elgin’s Grade 133, produced between 1896 and 1899 across just 30 runs, making this one of the last examples manufactured. The movement features an exposed mainspring barrel, finished with a geometric motif that reflects early Elgin artistry. Every component was restored by hand in our Little Rock, Arkansas workshop. Screws and steel hardware were thermally blued using traditional open flame techniques to enhance corrosion resistance while introducing contrast (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually polished to restore their original golden tone. The result is a well balanced example of late nineteenth century Elgin watchmaking, where a standout dial meets careful, period correct restoration.
Housed in our 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: 250 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: 7767141
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.

