Illinois Watch Co. was in operation from 1869-1948 and produced some of the most renowned railroad-grade movements ever manufactured. Watches were produced in their factory in Springfield, Illinois.
Powered by the Illinois Grade 255 movement, this 17-jewel caliber was produced in Springfield, Illinois in 1912. The movement retains its original nickel finish, laid out in a sunburst pattern that creates a dynamic texture that shifts beautifully under the light. Every component of the movement was carefully refinished in our workshop in Little Rock, Arkansas. Screws, steel hardware, and the ratchet and crown wheels were thermally blued by hand through controlled heating over an alcohol lamp, a traditional technique that enhances corrosion resistance while adding rich visual contrast (read more here). The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand-polished to restore their original golden sheen. The Illinois dial features beautiful geometric patterns that run vertically across the surface. As light moves across the dial, the patterns catch at different angles, creating a constantly shifting sense of depth and texture. The original kite hands were left unrestored and remain in their original heat-blued condition. Against the metal dial, they provide exceptional contrast while adding another layer of visual detail beyond the geometric patterning itself.
The timepiece is encased in a 316L stainless steel wristwatch conversion case, designed with adjustable lugs for ease in winding and setting, ensuring a tailored 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 participating in water activities. The timepiece comes fully serviced and ready for your upcoming adventures.
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: Illinois
Location: Springfield, Illinois
Year Manufactured: 1912
Dial Material: Metal (excellent)
Jewels: 17 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 (52 mm with crown)
Height: 13 mm
Serial Number: 2368356
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.

