Elgin Pocket Watch Help and Request for Servicing Suggestion

[jsg1976]

While visiting with relatives over the weekend, my Aunt gave me the pocket watch belonging to my great-grandfather, after whom I am named. The case looks like it is hinged, but I can’t figure out how to open it (and there’s no tab like on a hunter case), and I don’t want to damage it by trying too hard.

Does anyone know anything about the watch model pictured below?

It also definitely needs a service - I don’t think it’s been used in the 50 years since he passed away. Any suggestions in the US (but preferably in Chicago) where I can get it serviced?

Thanks!






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[ashbaug2]

Beautiful watch! I asked the same question about two of my familial pocket watches and was advised that any respected watchmaker can service a pocket watch. It doesn't look like yours requires any restoration, so a good watchmaker in your area should be able to help you out.

Good luck!

[77T]

I use The Antique Watch Company.

There are enough differences that a watchmaker who specializes in the larger ligne movements is what I look for. Some work demands tools that some Swiss watchmakers don’t have.

Anyway, my certified watchmaker declined doing the locket watches for maybe a good reason - experience can make the difference in results.


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[SG56]

Very nice gift!
I recent posted some pics from my uncle's collection. There were some Elgins among those too.

[jsg1976]

Originally Posted by SG56

Very nice gift!
I recent posted some pics from my uncle's collection. There were some Elgins among those too.

I just checked out your post. Very cool!


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[jsg1976]

Originally Posted by 77T

I use The Antique Watch Company.

There are enough differences that a watchmaker who specializes in the larger ligne movements is what I look for. Some work demands tools that some Swiss watchmakers don’t have.

Anyway, my certified watchmaker declined doing the locket watches for maybe a good reason - experience can make the difference in results.


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Thanks! I’ll check them out.


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[jsg1976]

Originally Posted by ashbaug2

Beautiful watch! I asked the same question about two of my familial pocket watches and was advised that any respected watchmaker can service a pocket watch. It doesn't look like yours requires any restoration, so a good watchmaker in your area should be able to help you out.

Good luck!

Thanks!


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[incontrol]

RGM in Lancaster PA can definitely service this watch. They do amazing work.


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[jsg1976]

Originally Posted by incontrol

RGM in Lancaster PA can definitely service this watch. They do amazing work.


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I didn’t know RGM serviced/repaired watches from other manufacturers. Thanks!


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[incontrol]

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[MILGAUSS88]

It is a 12 size, probably from the 1915-1935.
If you open the back and get the serial number I could give you the exact age and model .
Pocket watch models are based on the movement, not the case.

[jsg1976]

Originally Posted by MILGAUSS88

It is a 12 size, probably from the 1915-1935.
If you open the back and get the serial number I could give you the exact age and model .
Pocket watch models are based on the movement, not the case.

Thanks! Do you know how to open the back, by any chance? It appears hinged at 6:00, but there’s no tab like on a hunter case, and I wasn’t able to find a catch at the stem or anything. Do I just need a case knife to open it? (which realistically means I’ll take it to a watch repair place)


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[MILGAUSS88]

Originally Posted by jsg1976

Thanks! Do you know how to open the back, by any chance? It appears hinged at 6:00, but there’s no tab like on a hunter case, and I wasn’t able to find a catch at the stem or anything. Do I just need a case knife to open it? (which realistically means I’ll take it to a watch repair place)


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On an octagon case, yes
I use a box cutter with a razor or just a pocket knife to open the case. Just need to get it in the small crack between the case back and the body, opposite end from the hinge of course.

[jsg1976]

Ok, you guys were all right. I bit the bullet, and opened it this morning. Turns out there were two hinges - one for the glass and one for the movement. Pictures attached. The movement serial number appears to be 28162817.










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[jsg1976]

Originally Posted by MILGAUSS88

It is a 12 size, probably from the 1915-1935.
If you open the back and get the serial number I could give you the exact age and model .
Pocket watch models are based on the movement, not the case.

The movement serial number appears to be 28162817.


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[MILGAUSS88]

Per Pocket Watch Database:

Grade: 345
Manufacturer: Elgin
Manufacturer Location: Elgin, Illinois
Movement Serial Number: 28162817
Grade: 345
Model: 3
Class: 114
Estimated Production Year: 1925
Run Quantity: 7,000
Total Production: 736,900
Size: 12s
Jewels: 17j
Jewel Material: Ruby & Sapphire
Jewel Setting: Screw-Set
Movement Configuration: Openface
Movement Finish: Nickel
Movement Setting: Pendant
Plate: 3/4 Plate
Double Roller: Yes
Barrel: Going
Balance Type: Expansion
Balance Jewel Material: Ruby
Train: Quick
Regulator: Moseley
Hairspring: Breguet
Standard Dial Type: Single-Sunk
Adjusted: No
Railroad Grade: No

[jsg1976]

Thanks!


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