Elgin Open-Face Pocket Watch

Technical characteristics

Type

Open-face pocket watch

Case Diameter

approx. 44.6 mm

Case Material

Chromed

Place recorded

United States

Movement Serial

8320790

Maker / attribution

Elgin National Watch Co.

Movement Inscription

ELGIN NATL WATCH CO. U.S.A.

Design

Visible features

• White enamel dial signed 'ELGIN' below 12 o'clock. • Arabic numerals with blued steel hands and an outer minute track. • Subsidiary seconds dial positioned at 6 o'clock. • Milled coin-edge patterned front bezel around the crystal. • Attached curb-link metal chain terminated by a circular spring ring clasp.

Dial and Visual Presentation

Visual observation of the pocket watch shows an open-face format with a white enamel dial signed 'ELGIN' below the 12 o'clock marker. The display features Arabic hour numerals, an outer minute track, blued steel hands, and a subsidiary seconds dial located at 6 o'clock. The seller describes the dial as intact with no observed chips or cracks, noting light age-related discoloration and minor soiling along the inner bezel edge. The front of the case is fitted with a milled coin-edge patterned bezel surrounding the crystal.

Case Construction and Accessories

The watch is cased in chromed metal, reported with an approximate diameter of 44.6 mm, a total length of 51.4 mm including the crown, and 54.1 mm including both crown and ring. The total weight is listed as approximately 66 grams. The case features a snap-back closure, with the seller noting scattered fine surface scratches on the back and mid-band, but no dents or gouges. A curb-link metal chain with a swivel clip end is attached to the bow; the seller notes that the origin of the chain and its originality to this watch are unknown.

Dating and Source Inconsistencies

The listing exhibits contradictory chronological classifications. The auction title specifies '1900-1949' and text references movement serial 8320790 to the early 20th century, whereas the technical specifications table designates the period as '1850-1900'. The lot was offered without original box or documentation ('No box or papers'), and the seller states that water resistance and future maintenance are not guaranteed.

Reported Movement and Operational Claims

The internal mechanism is not visible in the provided primary photo and relies entirely on seller descriptions. The seller states the watch contains a manual-winding lever-set movement signed 'ELGIN NATL WATCH CO. U.S.A.' with serial number 8320790 stamped on the mainplate. Additional seller claims describe a nickel-finished mainplate with damascened decoration, an oscillating balance wheel, a visible lever escapement, and an F–S regulation index. The seller reported a bench rate of approximately +2 minutes 30 seconds per day when checked flat and dial-up, though long-term performance is unverified.

Identification

Serial number

8320790

Source note

Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.

Catalogue references

No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.