Elgin Wrist Watches
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Creator: Elgin
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Shockmaster Art Deco Watch, 1950's Flawless Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Shockmaster / Reference 6761
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 40mm X Width ...
Category
1950s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Rose Gold Filled Art Deco Watch Tortue Shaped Watch from 1940's
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tortue Shape
METAL / MATERIAL: Rose Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 32mm X Width 26mm
MO...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled, Rose Gold
Art Deco 10k Gold Filled Gents Wrist Watch By Elgin, Fully Serviced , c1946
By Elgin
Located in Westward ho, GB
For your consideration is this very stylish gents 10k Rolled Gold wristwatch made by the American watchmakers Elgin, dates to 1946. In superb condition with stainless back free from engravings. The movement is a very good quality 15 jewel Elgin 554 hand wound, made in USA. Serial number L256548 corresponds to 1946 manufacture date. Just serviced, ultrasonically cleaned and oiled. Running well and keeping good time for a vintage watch.
The usual light scratches and signs of previous use, plus some rubbing to the high spots of the plating seen under very close examination, but no dents, dings or other noticeable flaws. Inside the back is signed: CASED AND TIMED BY ELGIN NATIONAL WATCH CO...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
10k Gold, Gold-filled
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style Watch, 1930's with Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 40mm X Width 18mm
M...
Category
1930s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Gold Filled Modernist Tank Style Watch with Flawless Original Dial 1950's
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm X Width 27mm
M...
Category
1950s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch, circa 1940's Luminous Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Round Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm X Diameter 2...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Gold Filled De Luxe Art Deco Watch, circa 1940's with Custom Finished Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: De Luxe / Art Deco Tank Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm X Width...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Pocket Watch Gold Plated Working 15 Jewels 11066484 Year 1905
By Elgin
Located in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Vintage 1905 gold plated Elgin pocket watch that's 49mm in diameter and 14mm thick. The case is in good condition with a clean plastic crystal. The movement is working, 15 jewels, an...
Category
Early 1900s American Edwardian Antique Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold Plate
Vintage Ladies' Elgin 14k Gold Hand-Winding Watch with Black Leather Strap
By Elgin
Located in Van Nuys, CA
14k yellow gold case.
NOTE: Reverse of case has some dents.
23 mm in diameter (25 mm with crown).
Lug-to-lug distance: 26 mm.
Thickness: 6 mm.
Gold dial with black Art Deco Arabic n...
Category
20th Century American Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Elgin Pocket Watch Silverode Railroad Heavy Working 7 Jewel Year 1921, 59mm Case
By Elgin
Located in Rancho Santa Fe, CA
Elgin 1921 railroad pocket watch with a 59mm case made of silverode and is 20mm thick. Heavy watch with a clean plastic crystal. The case has a minor blemish and a light hand carving...
Category
1920s American Modern Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Silver
Elgin White Gold Filled Watch with Flawless Original Dial from 1908
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Rounded Square
METAL / MATERIAL: White Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1903
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 38 X Width 31
MOVE...
Category
Early 1900s American Art Deco Antique Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Gold Filled Art Deco Ladies Wrist Watch circa, 1930's with Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1930's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 30mm X Width 15mm
MOVEMENT / CALI...
Category
1930s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Lady Elgin Gold-Filled Art Deco Tank Watch with Original Dial from 1940's
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold-Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 24mm X Width 18mm
MO...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled 1940's Art deco Tonneau Shaped Watch with Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tonneau Shape
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36mm X Width 27mm...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Tank Style with Original Patinated Dial 1950's
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco Tank Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36mm X Width 23mm
MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 19 Jewels / Caliber 772
DIAL / HANDS: Orginal with Silvered Lines / Dauphine Hands
ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 19mm / Regular Length
WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement
LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT
This is a classic model by the iconic house of Elgin, one of Americas oldest and most well respected watch companies. It is fitted with their experimental balance. Patek Philippe used...
Category
1950s North American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Gold Filled Art Deco Cushion Shaped American Watch with Original Dial 1940
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Cushion Shaped
METAL / MATERIAL: Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm X Width 25mm
MOVEMENT / CALIB...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled from 1939 with Hand Engraved Monogram Tortue Shaped
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tortue Shape
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1939
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 25mm X Diameter 42mm...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled, Yellow Gold
Elgin Gold Filled Art Deco Tortue Shaped Wristwatch Original Design by Cartier
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Tortue Shape / Art Deco / Reference 0728
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length ...
Category
1950s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Mid Century Manual Winding Watch with Original Silvered Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Modern Art Deco
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Len...
Category
1950s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin Ladies Solid Gold Art Deco Watch with Cord Band 1940s and Box
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco
METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt. Solid Gold
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 33mm Length X 14mm Diameter
MOVEMENT / C...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
14k Gold
Platinum Vintage Elgin Diamond Watch
By Elgin
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
Ladies antique Platinum and diamond Elgin wristwatch.
Stamped platinum.
The back of case is lightly engraved, Noel 1934.
The case without the moveme...
Category
Mid-20th Century Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Diamond, Platinum
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch with Original Dial from the 1940's
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Modified Tortue Shape
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold-Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 32mm Length X 26...
Category
1940s Swiss Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin 14Kt White Gold Art Deco Ladies Watch circa 1920 with Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style
METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt Solid White Gold
CIRCA / YEAR: 1920's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 32mm X Width 18m...
Category
1920s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
White Gold
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Automatic Art Deco Watch, circa 1960's with Rare Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Round Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold-Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 41mm X Diameter 33...
Category
1960s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled, Yellow Gold
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch, Round circa 1950's with Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Round
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 39mm Length X 31mm Diameter
MOV...
Category
1950s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Lady Elgin 14k White Gold Handwinding Wristwatch w/ Cord Band
By Elgin
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
Lady Elgin 14k White Gold Handwinding Wristwatch w/ Cord Band
Movement #650
Movement Serial #F-616923
Case #4246-6659
14k White Gold Square Case
14 mm Wide (16 mm w/ Crown)
17 mm L...
Category
1940s American Modern Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
14k Gold, White Gold
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch, ca 1940's with Flawless Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Round Style
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 36mm X Diameter 29...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Art Deco Ladies White GF Wrist Watch by Elgin, Fully Serviced, C1934
By Elgin
Located in Westward ho, GB
Wonderfully styled Art Deco ladies watch originating from the 1934 and made by the American watchmakers Elgin. A fine classic calibre movement running well on a 7 jewel Elgin grade 4...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold, Gold-filled, White Gold
Elgin White Gold Filled Art Deco Manual Wristwatch, circa 1926
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style
METAL / MATERIAL: 14Kt. White Gold Filled
CIRCA: 1926
DIMENSIONS: Length 35mm X Width 27mm
MOVEMENT / CA...
Category
1920s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Art Deco Watch circa 1960's with Original Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Modern / Round
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 38mm X Diameter 32mm
MOVEM...
Category
1960s American Modernist Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled, Yellow Gold
Elgin Lord Elgin Watch 26933 14k Yellow Gold White Dial Case Manual
By Elgin
Located in Surfside, FL
Vintage Lord Elgin with rectangular 14k case on leather strap. With subseconds. Circa 1930s. Fine Pre-owned Elgin Watch.
Certified preowned Vintage Elgin Lord Elgin watch...
Category
1930s Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Yellow Gold
Art Deco Ladies Geometric Enamel Wrist Watch By Elgin, c1933, Newly Serviced.
By Elgin
Located in Westward ho, GB
For your consideration is this lovely Art Deco ladies wrist watch which looks great for both evening and day dress. Made by the US watchmak...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Silver, Enamel, Other
Vintage Elgin Octagonal Art Deco 14k Gold Filled Silver Floral Dial ladies Watch
By Elgin
Located in New York, NY
Pre-owned Elgin Vintage Octagonal Shaped 14k White Gold Filled Silver Floral Dial Wristwatch. Patina on the Dial, Blue Hands Showing Rust. No Original Bo...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Swiss Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Vintage Elgin 14k White Gold Women's Hand-Winding Art Deco Watch w/ Silk Band
By Elgin
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Model #105881
Movement #32662496
Does Not Include Box or Papers
This watch is guaranteed authentic. One year warranty included with purchase.
14k White Gold Case
17 mm Wide, 19 mm w...
Category
Early 20th Century American Art Deco Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
White Gold
Elgin Gold Filled & Enamel Inlayed Art Deco Watch circa 1920's
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco
METAL / MATERIAL: Gold-Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1920's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 30mm X Width 16mm
MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Ma...
Category
1920s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin White Gold Filled Art Deco Round Watch with Custom Finished Dial, 1950s
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Shock Master / Round Art Deco
METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: 38mm Length X 29mm Di...
Category
1950s Swiss Modern Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Gold Filled Art Deco Tortue Shaped Watch from 1940's with a Custom Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tortue Shape
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1940's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 38mm X Width 26mm
MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 15 Jewels / Caliber: 554
DIAL / HANDS: Custom Finished Orange with Arabic Numerals / Gilt Leaf Hands
ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Leather 16mm / Regular Length
WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement
LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT
This unique watch by the legendary American house of Elgin was produced in their factory in Elgin Illinois. The watch is done in the classic Tortue or turtle shape and was inspired by a design from Cartier. The original tortue, or turtle watch...
Category
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Gold Filled Art Deco Round Style
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Round
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1950's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 39mm X Diameter 32mm
MO...
Category
1950s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Yellow Gold Filled Open Face American Pocket Watch circa 1912 Enamel Dial
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Co.
STYLE / REFERENCE: Open Face
METAL / MATERIAL: Yellow G.F.
CIRCA / YEAR: 1812
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Diameter 57mm
MOVEMENT...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Elgin Wrist Watches
1960s Elgin Steel Chronograph Panda Dial
By Elgin
Located in Saint Petersburg, FL
A classic Elgin chronograph ca' 1960's. Featuring a white dial with slightly sunken subsidiary black dials, orange second hand. Measuring 36mm diameter without crown and approx. 43 m...
Category
1960s Swiss Modern Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Chromium Finished New Old Stock in the Box, circa 1929
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Cushion Shape
METAL / MATERIAL: Steel on Chromium
CIRCA / YEAR: 1929
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 34mm x Width 30mm
MOVEMENT / CALIBER: Manual Winding / 7 Jewels
DIAL / HANDS: Silvered with Original Luminous Numerals / Blued Steel Luminous Hands
ATTACHMENT / LENGTH: Alligator, 16mm / Regular Length
WARRANTY: 18 months on the movement (If you want it serviced).
LIFETIME SERVICE COMMITMENT
This amazing watch is still in its original box and has never even been serviced (that means it must be serviced if you want to wear it). Everything is original on this watch including the spring bars and strap. The guarantee paper is in the box but it has the wrong number on it. I suspect that is maybe why it was never sold. The correct paper likely was sold with another watch and when the jeweler realized it, it was to late and could not sell the second one. If you are collecting new old stock watches...
Category
1920s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin Mid Century Watch all Original with Original Box 1950's or 60's
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Mid Century
METAL / MATERIAL: Gold Filled
CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 33mm X Length 25mm
MOVEMENT / CALIBER...
Category
1960s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin Wrist Watches
Materials
Gold-filled
Elgin 14Kt. Solid Gold Cushion Shaped Early Wrist Watch High Grade from 1896
By Elgin
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company
STYLE / REFERENCE: Cushion Shape
METAL / MATERIAL: 14k Solid Yellow Gold
CIRCA / YEAR: 1896
DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 40mm X Wide 32mm
MOVEMENT...
Category
1890s North American Antique Elgin Wrist Watches
Elgin wrist watches for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a range of Elgin wrist watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Elgin jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Elgin diamond wrist watches, from our inventory of 2, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 41 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider wrist watches by Gruen, Bulova, and Waltham. Prices for Elgin wrist watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $475 and tops out at $5,200, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $958.
Creators Similar to Elgin
Questions About Elgin Wrist Watches
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Some 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024The 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.
- What is Elgin American?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Elgin 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.
- Are Elgin watches any good?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024Yes, many experts feel that Elgin watches are good from a quality standpoint. During its century in business, the American watchmaker developed a stellar reputation for producing reliable timepieces out of fine materials. Today, many styles of Elgin watches, particularly the company's railroad watches, are popular among collectors. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Elgin watches.
- Are Elgin watches valuable?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 17, 2024Yes, 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. - 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023To identify an Elgin wristwatch, examine the dial. Until 1960, all timepieces produced by the American watchmaker showed the "Elgin" name on the dial. After the 1960s, the dials typically displayed an "E" to signify the maker. You can also check the stamp on the back of the case. Most Elgin watches will have a four digit style number above a circular stamp that specifies the watch material. Below the circular stamp, you will usually find a series of numbers that relates to the case manufacturer. You can search for the style number using trusted online resources to identify the style name for many Elgin watches. A certified appraiser or experienced vintage watch dealer can also provide assistance with identifications. Shop a range of Elgin wristwatches on 1stDibs.
- How much is an Elgin worth?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024How much an Elgin watch is worth depends on its materials, age, style, condition and other factors. Selling prices for Elgin watches that no longer function may be less than $100, while highly sought-after models in exceptional condition may be worth upwards of $10,000. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can help you determine the potential value of your timepiece. Find a selection of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
- How do you date an Elgin watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024How you date an Elgin watch depends on its age. On watches produced before 1956, you should generally examine their movement serial number. The Elgin National Watch Company numbered its movements sequentially from its founding through 1955, so you can easily determine the age of a timepiece by cross-referencing the movement serial number with information provided by trusted online resources. For newer watches, a combination of dial markings and case model numbers can be used to determine the year of production. Again, you can consult trusted online resources for guidance. Another option is to have a knowledgeable watchmaker or antiques dealer examine your timepiece. Shop a variety of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024To spot a fake Elgin watch, cross-reference the markings found on the back with information published on trusted online resources. Most timepieces feature a four-digit style number, a circular stamp that denotes the watch material and a series of numbers that identify the case manufacturer. By researching these numbers, you can usually determine the model of a timepiece. If your watch isn't a match for that model, it is unlikely to be authentic. A certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert can also assist when authenticating Elgin watches. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Elgin watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022The easiest way to identify your Elgin pocket watch is to enter the serial number into an authoritative online database. To find the serial number, open the timepiece and look at the inner movement. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Elgin pocket watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022In Elgin watches, grade means what quality the timepieces are. Elgin assigned grades based on the type of movement and the type of finish on its watches. Higher grade watches tended to cost more than lower grade ones. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Elgin watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024All Elgin watches are at least vintage, if not antiques. In the 1960s, the Elgin National Watch Company discontinued its watch production, and by the 1980s, the Elgin brand was phased out completely by the company it had previously merged with. Since any timepiece between 20 and 99 years old is vintage, many Elgin watches fall under that category. Any Elgin watch that is 100 years old or older is antique. You can identify an antique Elgin watch using the serial number, which you'll find inside the movement. By cross-referencing the serial number found on your timepiece to information published on trusted online resources, you can identify its year of production. If your watch doesn't have a serial number, it was likely produced in the 18th century, making it an antique. If you'd like assistance with dating your watch, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a variety of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
- Who makes Elgin pocket watches?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024The answer to who makes Elgin pocket watches is a little complicated. In 1968, the Elgin National Watch Company closed and stopped producing its watches. However, the owners opted to license the Elgin name to other companies, allowing them to make their own watches that bear the brand’s name. The license changed hands a few times and, as of 2024, was the property of MZ Berger Inc. This company manufactures and sells Elgin pocket watches and wristwatches in China. These timepieces feature Japanese-made movements and bear little resemblance to the original pocket watches produced by Elgin. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Elgin watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024To find out how old your Elgin watch is, look on its back. Nearly all Elgin watches will have a serial number on their cases. Looking up this number in databases found on trusted online resources will help you determine approximately when your watch was made. If you need further assistance, consider consulting a certified appraiser or experienced dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Elgin watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024Elgin pocket watches are more than 150 years old. The first Elgin pocket watch debuted in 1867, and the Elgin National Watch Co. watchmaker continued to produce them until 1968. At the height of their popularity, Elgin pocket watches accounted for half of all pocket watches sold in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a range of Elgin watches.
- Are Elgin watches real gold?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertJune 10, 2024Whether or not Elgin watches are gold depends on the timepiece in question. The watchmaker designed a range of pocket watches and wristwatches made of 10-karat gold, 14-karat gold and 18-karat gold, while some of the company’s other accessories are gold-filled or gold-plated. (Gold-filled jewelry doesn’t have a lot of gold, but it has more gold than gold-plated jewelry.)
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.
Find antique Elgin watches and other watches on 1stDibs. - Are Elgin watches still made?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024No, Elgin watches aren't still made. The Elgin National Watch Company stopped producing watches in 1968. However, it did license its name rights to a number of other watchmakers. Although they have the same name, timepieces manufactured under Elgin licensing agreements have no other connection to the ones made by the Elgin National Watch Company. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Elgin watches.
- Is Elgin a high-end watch?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024Yes, many people consider an Elgin to be a high-end watch. The American watchmaker produced a line of luxury-grade timepieces, which it sold at aspirational price points. Interestingly, modern-day collectors tend to favor the company's mid- and entry-level watches. Its line of railroad pocket watches is especially popular. Explore a wide range of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024To tell if an Elgin watch is real, look for its identification numbers. Authentic Elgin watches usually have a reference number printed on their movements and a case number on their cases. Using trusted online resources, you can learn what characteristics watches that feature these numbers should display, such as the hands and dial color, and then compare them to your watch. Any mismatches may indicate that your timepiece is a replica. Alternatively, you can ask a certified appraiser or knowledgeable Elgin dealer or repair technician to authenticate your watch. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Elgin watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024Elgin stopped making watches in 1968. However, that wasn't the end of the Elgin brand. The Elgin National Watch Company sold the rights to its brand name to a Chinese company called MZ Berger Inc., which continues to manufacture watches under it to this day. Shop a collection of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Lady Elgin watches were made in the mid-20th century. In the 1930s, Elgin introduced its now iconic collection of timepieces for women, drawing inspiration for its name from its existing line of Lord Elgin watches for men. Elgin continued to make the watches until the company closed in 1964. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Elgin watches.