Saturday, May 24, 2025

Elgin National Watch Company

The Elgin National Watch Company, often simply known as Elgin, was one of the most prominent and influential American watchmakers from the late 19th to mid-20th century. Here's a detailed overview of its history:

Founding and Early Years (1864–1870s)

  • Founded: August 1864 in Elgin, Illinois, originally as the National Watch Company.

  • Founders: A group of Chicago businessmen, including former Waltham Watch Company employees such as J.C. Adams.

  • Goal: To produce high-quality, affordable watches using standardized, interchangeable parts—a revolutionary idea at the time.



No comments:

Post a Comment

Elgin – Circa 1873 Elgin National Watch Co. 18K Gold Key Wound

  Elgin – Circa 1873 (Elgin National Watch Co. was founded 1864) By 1873: Elgin was still in its early manufacturing phase Most watc...