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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.
This Elgin timepiece was crafted in Elgin, Illinois, and completed in 1900—marking the very first year of production for Elgin’s Grade 216. This 15-jewel movement was only produced for a few short years between 1900 and 1904. It features an exposed mainspring barrel and stunning damaskeening. Components were carefully refinished with blue accents on the screws and hardware using precise hand-applied thermal treatment—a traditional watchmaking technique that enhances both corrosion resistance and visual appeal (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were each individually hand-polished to restore their original golden sheen. The watch hands remain unrestored in their original heat‑blued condition. The porcelain‑enamel Elgin dial is a private label made specifically for Fred Studer, owner of Fred Studer Co., Inc., a jeweler and optician. Back then, it was common for businesses to combine jewelry and optical services. Their business was headquartered in Waco, Texas, which is why Waco, Texas is on the dial. The porcelain‑enamel dial itself is in flawless condition.
The timepiece is housed in a surgical-grade 316L stainless steel conversion case with a 40 mm diameter—offering one of the best fits for any conversion available. The case includes both caseback and crown gaskets, providing water resistance up to 50 meters, though it is recommended to remove the watch before engaging in water activities. The watch comes fully serviced and ready for 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: 1900
Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel (private label, 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: 8292951
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.