Elgin Wrist Watch

This is the very first model of men's wristwatch offered by Elgin. The company began advertising a men's wristwatch in late 1913, with its marketing aimed at "outdoor men" such as motorists, golfers, hunters, fishermen, yachtsmen, baseball players, oarsmen, and aviators. Elgin secured the endorsement of several well-known race car drivers, including Indianapolis 500 competitors Louis Disbrow and Wild Bill Endicott. These very first watches sold had 7-jewel, 0-size movements housed in Philadelphia Watch Case Co. cases in nickel, sterling silver, and gold fill. Beginning around 1915, this same model was also purchased by the U.S. War Department for use by the cavalry troops. This sterling silver model was priced at $12.00 in 1914. It is in excellent condition showing only light wear to the Philadelphia Watch Case Co. hinged sterling silver case. Caseback is excellent and unengraved. Case measures 38mm long and 33mm wide. Original enamel dial is superb. Glass crystal is excellent. The watch is powered by its correct 0-size, 7-jewel Elgin grade 320 movement, just serviced and running strong.