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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.
Completed in 1901 in Elgin, Illinois, this timepiece represents the earliest era of the company’s Grade 216 production. Its 15-jewel movement—manufactured from 1900 through 1904—showcases an exposed mainspring barrel and dramatic damaskeening that adds depth and movement across the plates. Every detail of the movement has been brought back to life: screws and hardware were thermally blued by hand over an open flame, a traditional process that strengthens the metal while creating a vibrant, iridescent finish (read more here). Jewel settings, the gear train, balance, and balance weights were each individually hand-polished to recapture their warm golden glow. The porcelain-enamel dial remains flawless, framed by crisp Roman numerals and an intricate Elgin logo scroll whose fine details emerge the longer you look. Original Louis XIV-style hands, untouched in their golden finish, complete the presentation with authentic warmth. A rare survivor from the turn of the century, this Elgin has been meticulously restored to showcase the craftsmanship of its time and is prepared to be worn and appreciated for another hundred years.
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: 9063661
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.