Elgin from 1904 with a Multichromatic Porcelain-enamel Dial

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 from 1904 is nothing short of a vintage American masterpiece. The porcelain-enamel dial is executed in one of the most elegant multichromatic designs we have ever come across. At its center, a golden circular motif radiates outward, while bold Roman numerals are framed between intricate inner and outer golden flourishes. Along the perimeter, the minute track is punctuated by bold diamond-shaped markers at five-minute intervals. Despite its incredible level of detail, the dial maintains an elegant symmetry and exceptional legibility—a remarkable example of American dialmaking from the turn of the century. On the movement side is Elgin’s Grade 235, a 15 jewel caliber with golden jewel settings and crisp enamel lettering. Using traditional thermal coloring techniques over an alcohol lamp, we hand colored the movement hardware in our Little Rock, Arkansas workshop (read more here). This meticulous process adds contrast and depth, creating visual harmony that feels true to the period. The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand polished to restore their original golden luster and brilliance. The result is a movement that feels alive with craftsmanship. Together, the dial and movement capture the precision, clarity, and enduring spirit of early 20th century American watchmaking, revived by hand in our workshop.

The timepiece is encased in a 316L stainless steel wristwatch conversion case, designed with adjustable lugs for easy winding and setting, ensuring a comfortable fit across various wrist sizes. The case includes front, back, and crown gaskets, providing water resistance up to 50 meters, though it is recommended to remove the watch before engaging in water activities. The timepiece comes fully serviced and ready for your next adventure. Because of our dedication to preserving history, the original pocket watch case will be included as well.

Watch Performance

• Accuracy: +/- 10 seconds per day

• Amplitude: 275 degrees

• Beat Error: 1.5 ms

• Frequency: 18,000 bph (5 beats per second)

• Power Reserve: 24-30 hours

• Complication: Jeweled Safety Barrel

Watch Specifications

• Manufacture: Elgin

• Location: Elgin, Illinois

• Year Manufactured: 1904

• Dial Material: Porcelain-enamel

• Jewels: 15 jewels

• Case Diameter: 44 mm

• Front Crystal: Domed AR coated sapphire

• Back Crystal: Flat AR coated sapphire

• Case Material: 316L stainless

• Lug width: 22 mm

• Lug to Lug: 47 mm

• Height: 13 mm

• Serial Number: 10051031

• Water Resistance: 50 meters

• Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty