Elgin

It depends on the materials that the watches are made with, the significance of the model and the year of production. Railroad pocket watches can range from $200 to $5000.

Some Elgin watches can be worth as much as $5,000 because of their make, model and age. In most cases, though, Elgin watches sell in the $200-$500 range.

Yes, Elgin watches are valuable. The American watchmaker’s timepieces are widely favored by collectors all over the world. Watch lovers won’t likely pay more than a few hundred dollars for a vintage model, while rare Elgin timepieces, especially Art Deco-era wristwatches sporting gold cases, will fetch much higher sums. Whether or not an antique Elgin watch is a good investment, however, will depend upon factors such as rarity, condition, materials and more.

The Elgin National Watch Company was founded in Elgin, Illinois, in 1864 and was at one time the largest manufacturer of watches in the United States. In 1867, Elgin introduced its first watch — a pocket watch.

In the late 1800s, the open-face pocket watch became a staple on the American railroad. It was a requirement for railway workers to wear a pocket watch, as the timepieces were responsible for keeping conductors on schedule. This was a boon to the watchmaking industry, with companies like Hamilton, Elgin and the Waltham Watch Company producing high-grade and workingman’s watches. So-called “railroad watches” were among the finest watches of the era, and Elgin railroad watches are coveted today by watch enthusiasts.

As vintage watches of all kinds are making a comeback — even watchmakers such as Patek Philippe, Breitling and Omega are reissuing mid-century models — Elgin watches are in high demand on the secondary market.

At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Buyers should keep in mind that the value of any investment is subject to fluctuation, and any investment decisions should be made according to the guidance of a financial advisor.

Find vintage and antique Elgin watches on 1stDibs.

The difference between Elgin and Lord Elgin is that one is the name of a watchmaker, and the other is the name of a line of watches. Elgin is the shortened name for the Elgin National Watch Company, founded in 1863 in Elgin, Illinois. One of the manufacturer's most well-known pocket watches was the Lord Elgin, which debuted during the first decade of the 20th century. A wristwatch version of the timepiece hit the market in the 1930s. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of Elgin watches.

Elgin American was an American brand known for producing watches, jewelry and compacts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Illinois Watchcase Company owned it. In 1901, the company abandoned the Elgin name due to trademark infringement claims made by the Elgin National Watch Co. Find a selection of Elgin American art, jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.