Preliminary identification

Elgin Quartz Chronograph-Style Moon Phase Watch

Photo reference

1 uploaded photo

Overview

A classic-styled quartz wristwatch featuring a multi-dial display and a moon phase or day/night indicator. While it carries the legendary Elgin name, this piece represents the brand's transition into the modern…

Story

The name 'Elgin' once represented the beating heart of American industrial might, with a factory in Illinois so large it had its own police force and fire department.

Maker / Origin

Founded in 1864, the original Elgin National Watch Company produced nearly half of all pocket watches made in America.

Condition & Value

The watch appears to be in excellent cosmetic condition, possibly 'New Old Stock' given the presence of the original box and tags. It likely requires a battery replacement to be functional. The preservation of the original presentation box significantly helps maintain its modest value.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD