Elgin Charles H. Markham

Part of Elgin’s American Efficiency series, the “Charles H. Markham” was named in honor of Markham (1861-1930), who was the President and Chairman of the Board of the Illinois Central Railroad. Previously, Markham had also served as vice-presidents of the Southern Pacific and the Houston and Texas Central railroads, as well as president of Gulf Oil in Beaumont, Texas. The watch was priced to consumers at $41.00 in 1929. It is quite scarce and this is the first example I have offered in several years. It is in crisp, excellent condition with only a few tiny specks of brassing to the bezel corners. Upper surface of bezel still retains most of its factory-applied brushed finish. Caseback is excellent and unengraved, with some traces of its original factory-applied brushed finish. The case measures 38mm long and 30mm wide. Factory original new old stock dial is perfect, has silver inlaid numerals. Glass crystal is superb. The watch is powered by its correct 17-jewel Elgin grade 487 manual wind movement, just serviced and running strong.