Elgin Grade 541 15-Jewel Cocktail Watch, c.1948

Story

In the years immediately following World War II, American watchmaking reached a pinnacle of domestic production, with Elgin leading the charge from their massive factory in Illinois.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1864, the Elgin National Watch Company was once the largest watch manufacturing site in the world, producing half of all pocket watches made in the United States.

Condition & Value

There is significant 'brassing' or wear-through of the gold finish on the lugs and case edges, revealing the darker base metal beneath. The crystal shows light scratching, and the movement, while appearing clean, would likely require a professional service to keep accurate time.