Vintage 1930's Elgin C.H. Hulburd 18KT White Gold Pocket Watch

 Vintage 1930's Elgin C.H. Hulburd 18KT White Gold Pocket Watch

Elgin C.H. Hulburd 18k White Gold Pocket Watch (1930s)

Overview

• Model: C.H. Hulburd

• Era: 1920s–1930s

• Movement:

  • Ultra-thin, 12-size, 21-jewel movement

  • Adjusted to 5–6 positions for chronometer-grade accuracy

  • Beautifully finished with gold jewel settings, micrometric regulator, and damaskeening

• Case:

  • 18K solid white gold (also made in yellow gold and occasionally platinum)

  • Often engraved with Art Deco motifs

  • Hinged back and dust cover

• Dial:

  • Classic porcelain or silvered dial with Breguet or baton-style hands

  • Sub-seconds at 6 o’clock

• Style: Slim, elegant, Art Deco-era luxury pocket watch

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Why It’s Special

• Top of Elgin’s Line: This was the most prestigious watch Elgin ever made — named after company president Charles Hulburd.

• Hand-Finished: Each movement was hand-assembled and adjusted by Elgin’s master watchmakers.

• Luxury Materials: Almost always cased in solid 18K gold (white, yellow, or green).

• Scarce: Production numbers were low compared to standard Elgin pocket watches.

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Current Value (Market Range)

• Typical Range: $4,000 – $8,000

• High-End Examples: $10,000+ if:

  • Case is platinum or diamond-set

  • Original box & papers included

  • Movement is pristine and fully serviced

  • Dial and hands are original and flawless

At major auctions (Christie’s, Sotheby’s, Heritage), a pristine 1930s 18K white gold Hulburd has crossed the $12,000 mark, especially if it has historical provenance or presentation engraving.