We have here a very special Lord Elgin wristwatch from the 1940s. The all original Arabic, and circular dot rectangular , cream dial which has aged nicely and gives no doubt to the originality of the piece. The rectangular subsidiary seconds dial give a nice symmetry to the watch.
The 14ct gold case measures 22x35mm, which makes for a comfortable wear. Originally, the watch would have been for men but we love rectangular Deco watches on women too!
Inside is Elgins usa caliber 599, fully serviced by us and running strongly. Extra Points
Shortly afterWaltham launched their “Colonial Series”watches in 1907, the Elgin National Watch Company introduced a competing series to capitalize on the growing demand for extra thin watches.
In May 1908, the “Lord Elgin” series was introduced to the trade, boasting that it was “the thinnest watch made in America with enamel dial,” arguably winning the duel against Waltham’s extra thin watches. In addition to the enamel option, the Lord Elgin watches were also available with metal dials and were cased at the factory in solid gold or gold-filled cases.
While later Elgin movements in various sizes are found with the “Lord Elgin” marking, the initial “Lord Elgin” name was used for marketing purposes only. The14-Size movementswere marked with the standard “Elgin Nat’l Watch Co.” signing.
Four grades were offered to complete the original Lord Elgin Series:356(7 Jewels),357(15 Jewels),358(17 Jewels), and359(17 Jewels, Adjusted). Elgin advertised the Lord Elgin series extensively until the company’sextra thin 12-Size watcheswere introduced in 1912.
This watch comes fully serviced by our on-site workshop and with a 12 month, non-waterproof service cover.
What We Think
A Deco wristwatch is a must have in any collection and we love this American market piece in 14ct gold. There is a simplicity to the design that makes this watch something special. We've paired the watch on a brown crocodile grain strap but at 80+ years old, it can get away with anything!
Spec Stuff
Serial : T73****
Reference : 188059
Movement : Caliber 559 21 Jewels
Age : 1931/1940 Specific Age : 1940-46 Case Size : 22mm Case Thickness : 10mm Lug to Lug : 35mm Lugs :16mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : No Case Material : 14ct Gold Service History : Our 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
1940-46 Lord Elgin High Grade 21Jewels solid 14k Gold Deco Rectangular Wristwatch with Box
