ELGIN WATCH Co.

By the early 20th century, Elgin was producing over 1 million watches per year and was the largest producer of fine watches in the world.

Elgin Watch Company was a leading American watch manufacturer that operated from 1864 to 1968, founded by a group of investors in Elgin, Illinois, and quickly became one of the most successful watchmakers in the United States.

The early years of the company were marked by rapid expansion and innovation. In 1874, the company introduced the first full plate movement, which was more durable and accurate than previous designs. In 1875, Elgin introduced the first watch with a stem winding and setting mechanism, which became the industry standard. The company was also known for its high-quality movements and its innovative designs, which included the first wristwatch with an alarm and the first watch with a shock-resistant balance.

During World War II, Elgin produced watches for the military, including the A-11, which became known as the "Watch That Won the War." After the war, the company continued to produce watches, but faced increasing competition from foreign manufacturers and the rise of quartz technology.

In 1968, the company ceased production and its assets were sold to a group of investors. The Elgin name has since been used by various companies, but the original Elgin Watch Company is remembered as one of the most important American watchmakers in history.

1908 ELGIN
Transitional
Art Deco
Wristwatch

The first decade of the American wristwatch – “Transition: Out of the Pocket.”

The pocket watch belongs to the 19th century and its less hurried sense of time. The wristwatch clearly speaks of the faster pace of the 20th century. The pace of the world became faster; the style of time changed and the transition from the era of the pocket watch to that of the wristwatch was symbolic of the change.

From the transition era, with the unique offset crown design, this very well-preserved timepiece is a vintage Elgin Art Deco wristwatch, the movement serial number dates it from 1908.

Yes! This watch is 115 years old!

It is a manual-winding watch with an original Elgin stem wind and set movement, 0 size, open face caliber, model 3 and grade 355, 15 jewels, sub second, 18,000 A/h, U.S.A. made.

IN LOVELY CONDITION! Like it came from a time machine, the original and perfect white dial featuring bold Arabic Numerals, bold minute/second track, and the original blue steel matching hands. The sub second is located at 6. Also, the dial is signed with the Elgin name.

It is cased in a 31.6mm cushion case with beautifully decorative Art Deco engraved sides and lugs; base metal and stainless-steel back. After 155 years, the case is still in good condition.

It comes with a new-old-stock black water proof Genuine Leather two-piece strap.

This watch is a perfect collector's item. Runs very well, keeps good time!

Thank you for looking!  Please feel free to contact us with any questions or respectful offers.

Movement:
13402992
Elgin Natl. Watch Co.
Safety Pinion
U.S.A.
15 Jewels

Case Back Markings:
Stainless
Base Metal

Measurements (mm):
Case 31.6
Case with Crown 35.1
Case Lug to Lug 38.6
Case Thickness 11.7
Lug Width 16
Band Width 16

Vintage watches are traditionally smaller than today's watches. Men’s watches typically measure between 29-36mm wide (some larger, some smaller) excluding the crown. In the listing details we typically try to do our best to list all pertinent dimensions of a watch. If you don't see it, or we failed to do so, please reach out to us. Women’s watches from the 1900s-1970s were also much smaller than today's offerings. Please also feel free to ask any questions you have pertaining to size.

We prefer to shoot photographs outside when weather is permitting. However, when we shoot indoors, please be aware that we shoot our photographs inside of lightboxes that are lit with 360 LED bulbs. This indeed magnifies any flaws. Usually, they are much less obvious to the naked eye. Having said that, we never photoshop any of our photography, remove blemishes, etc. We adjust lighting when necessary, but what you see is what you are getting, and we take pride in that.

The condition is pre-owned.

The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear but is fully operational and functions as intended.
Please review the photos and feel free to ask any questions you may have.
It will be carefully packed.

Please view our other listings.
Thank you for looking!

WA-3477