Illinois pocket watch conversion
Illinois pocket watch conversion

Illinois Grade 273 from 1907 Finished in Slate

$2,499.00

This timepiece is a pocket watch conversion, and the movement can be seen through the caseback. The timepiece features 19 jewels, a golden guilloche dial, and the movement is finished in slate.

This piece is in our 44 mm conversion case, learn more about case size and profile.

*Every detail—from servicing, restoring, repairing and casing—is completed in our shop in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA*

This timepiece is a pocket watch conversion, and the movement can be seen through the caseback. The timepiece features 19 jewels, a golden guilloche dial, and the movement is finished in slate.

This piece is in our 44 mm conversion case, learn more about case size and profile.

*Every detail—from servicing, restoring, repairing and casing—is completed in our shop in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA*

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.

This Illinois timepiece was crafted in Springfield, Illinois in 1907. It houses the renowned Grade 273 movement—a 19-jewel, in-house design produced by Illinois between 1905 and 1923. Components were carefully refinished with slate 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). This slate finish is a brand-new color we achieved through a unique sequence of quenching and polishing steps. The result is an absolutely breathtaking tone that sits between blue and grey, offering a striking, modern elegance unlike anything else. The watch hands remain in their original heat blue condition, just as Illinois applied them at the time of manufacture. To complete the restoration, the jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were each individually hand-polished to restore their original golden sheen. The metal Illinois dial features an intricate golden guilloché center with bold golden numerals around the perimeter. Over time, the dial has developed a rich, natural patina, adding depth, warmth, and character to this remarkable piece.

The timepiece is encased in a 316L stainless steel watch 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 future 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: 1907

  • Dial Material: Metal

  • Jewels: 19 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

  • Original Case Included: No

  • Serial Number: 1901595

  • Water Resistance: 50 meters

  • Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty

All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.