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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 1923 and houses the renowned Grade 273 movement—a 17 jewel, in house caliber produced between 1905 and 1923. This example comes from the final year and last production run ever made. The movement features stunning fish scale damaskeening that catches the light from every angle, giving the entire surface a subtle shimmer. The golden movement accents are original and were applied by Illinois at the time of manufacture. The original steel hands were mirror polished to remove corrosion, then thermally blued over an alcohol lamp to impart a deep iridescent blue hue (read more here). This is the same traditional method Illinois used to heat blue hands during production. To complete the restoration, the jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were each individually hand polished to restore their original golden sheen. On the dial side, the metal Illinois dial features an intricate guilloché striped pattern that becomes incredibly dynamic in changing light. Over time, it has developed a rich natural patina that adds depth, warmth, and character to an already exceptional 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: 1923
Dial Material: Metal (guilloche)
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: 4175120
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.