Posted 9 years ago
cue606
(5 items)
This Elgin pocket watch was recently restored by a professional horologist who told me according to the serial number it was manufactured in 1860. It belonged to my great great grandfather who worked for the railroad. I am the fifth generation to carry it and it still keeps excellent time.
Nice watch, but would have to question the dating, unless the dial has been changed also....prior to the mid 1870's Elgin wasn't the name brand for these watches...National Watch Co would been name brand on dial .. Neither here nor there, fantastic watch, Thanks for sharing it with us
Kerry
Nice watch and dial, but I would love to see a clear photo of the movement. With the serial number a lot can be learned.
Dave
On August 27, 1864, a company was incorporated under the name of "The National Watch Company" of Chicago, Illinois, with a capitol of $100,000. The incorporators were:
Philo Carpenter
Howard Z. Culver
Benjamin W. Raymond
Geo. M. Wheeler
Thomas S. Dickerson
Edward H. Williams
W. Robbins
It was decided that the factory would be located in Elgin, Ill. and was completed in 1866.
The first watch produced was an 18 size B.W. Raymond movement in April of 1867.
On May 12, 1874 the stockholders had a meeting and it was decided to change the name of the company to The Elgin National Watch Co.
Here is a National Watch Co. manufactured in their first year 1867, with a presentation inscription dated Nov. 22, 1867.
Dave
http://www.collectorsweekly.com/stories/143322-h-z-culver-national-watch-co-elgin-w?in=collection-726
I need to get the serial number because some things aren't fitting. Thanks for the information.
Instructions on how to open a pocket watch case:
http://www.pocketwatchrepair.com/how-to/open-pocketwatch-cases.php
Dave