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 1901, during the early production years of Elgin’s Grade 216. The 15-jewel movement, produced between 1900 and 1904, features an exposed mainspring barrel and bold damaskeening that gives the plates a sense of depth and motion. Each movement component was carefully refinished: screws and hardware thermally blued by hand over an open flame, a traditional technique that enhances durability while creating vivid, iridescent color. (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand-polished to restore their golden sheen. The Louis XIV style hands remain in their original golden finish, untouched and authentic. The porcelain-enamel dial is exceptional—flawless in condition, accented with gold detailing, golden dots along the subdial, and bold Roman numerals that project both elegance and strength. A rare survivor from the early 1900s, this Elgin has been meticulously restored to showcase the artistry of its era while remaining ready for another century of appreciation.
The movement is set in a custom 40 mm conversion case crafted from surgical-grade 316L stainless steel. This size offers a balanced fit on the wrist, making it one of the most versatile proportions available in any conversion. The case is built with crown and caseback gaskets, tested to 50 meters of water resistance, though removal before swimming or showering is recommended. Fully serviced and regulated, this watch is ready for years of reliable wear and appreciation.
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: 1901
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: 9063101
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.