ELGIN WATCH COMPANY was a leading American watch manufacturer that operated from 1864 to 1968, founded by a group of investors in Elgin, Illinois, and quickly became one of the most successful watchmakers in the United States. 

The early years of the company were marked by rapid expansion and innovation. In 1874, the company introduced the first full plate movement, which was more durable and accurate than previous designs. In 1875, Elgin introduced the first watch with a stem winding and setting mechanism, which became the industry standard. The company was also known for its high-quality movements and its innovative designs, which included the first wristwatch with an alarm and the first watch with a shock-resistant balance.  

During World War II, Elgin produced watches for the military, including the A-11, which became known as the "Watch That Won the War." After the war, the company continued to produce watches, but faced increasing competition from foreign manufacturers and the rise of quartz technology.   

In 1968, the company ceased production and its assets were sold to a group of investors. The Elgin name has since been used by various companies, but the original Elgin Watch Company is remembered as one of the most important American watchmakers in history.  

LORD ELGIN
21 Jewels 
Mechanical 
Wristwatch  

A classic timepiece, this vintage Lord Elgin DuraPower wristwatch dates from 1952. 

It features a manual-winding mechanism powered by the original signed Elgin DuraPower movement, caliber grade 670. This movement boasts 21 jewels, a sub-seconds hand at the 6 o'clock position, and is adjusted for precision. It is a size 15/0s and was made in the U.S.A. 

Cased in a 22x30.4mm rectangular 14K yellow gold-filled case with a distinctive fancy lug design and a domed crystal. 

The original champagne dial is super clean and features gold Arabic numerals, a black minute track, and matching gold hands. The dial also signed with the LORD ELGIN name and the Durapower logo. 

It is fitted with a new-old-stock Hadley-Roma brown genuine leather two-piece strap. 

After more than 70 years, this wristwatch remains an excellent collector’s item. It runs very well and keeps accurate time!

Thank you for looking!  Please feel free to contact us with any questions or respectful offers.   

Movement: 
Elgin 
21 Jewels 
Cal. 670 
ADJ'D 
S629890 
 
Case Back Markings: 
Cased and Timed by Elgin National Watch Co. 
SCHWAB and WUISCHPARD 
14KT Gold Filled 
661478 

Measurements (mm):
Case 22x30.4 
Case with Crown 23.8  
Case Lug to Lug 37.5  
Case Thickness 9.8  
Lug Width 16   
Band Width 16   

Vintage watches are traditionally smaller than today's watches. Men’s watches typically measure between 29-36mm wide (some larger, some smaller) excluding the crown. In the listing details we typically try to do our best to list all pertinent dimensions of a watch. If you don't see it, or we failed to do so, please reach out to us. Women’s watches from the 1900s-1970s were also much smaller than today's offerings. Please also feel free to ask any questions you have pertaining to size. 

We prefer to shoot photographs outside when weather is permitting. However, when we shoot indoors, please be aware that we shoot our photographs inside of lightboxes that are lit with 360 LED bulbs. This indeed magnifies any flaws. Usually, they are much less obvious to the naked eye. Having said that, we never photoshop any of our photography, remove blemishes, etc. We adjust the lighting, when necessary, but what you see is what you are getting, and we take pride in that.  

The condition is pre-owned.   
The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear but is fully operational and functions as intended. 
Please review the photos and feel free to ask any questions you may have.  
 
It will be carefully packed.  

Please view our other listings.  
Thank you for looking!  
   
WA-0791