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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.
Powered by Illinois Grade 404 movement, this 17 jewel caliber was produced in Springfield, Illinois in 1917 during the World War I era, when Illinois was celebrated for both the precision and aesthetic quality of its watchmaking. The movement retains its original nickel finish, laid out in a pinwheel pattern that creates a dynamic texture shifting under the light. The gold accents are original and were applied by Illinois at the time of manufacture. The original Breguet hands were restored by first polishing them to a mirror finish to remove corrosion, then individually heat bluing each hand over brass shavings with an alcohol lamp (read more here). This traditional technique was used by watchmakers at the turn of the twentieth century to impart a blue iridescent hue on polished steel. The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were each hand polished to restore their original golden tone, creating strong visual contrast throughout the movement. The metal dial features a concentric guilloché motif at the center with circular engraving, framed by black Arabic numerals and a refined minute track marked with triangles at five minute intervals. The restored Breguet hands stand out with exceptional clarity against the silver dial and make checking the time a visual delight.
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: 1917
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: 3230847
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.