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Vintage 1923 Elgin Art Deco Octagonal Open-Face Pocket Watch – 7J Grade 303
Item Overview:
Up for sale is a stunning, beautifully preserved piece of American horological history. This 1923 Elgin National Watch Co. gentleman's dress pocket watch features a highly desirable Art Deco octagonal case configuration. Housing a functioning mechanical movement, this piece offers an excellent opportunity for collectors, vintage enthusiasts, or anyone looking for an authentic centennial timepiece.
Aesthetic & Mechanical Condition:
• Case Exterior: The nickel-chromium finish is in mint condition. The engraving lines on both the borders and the back panel remain incredibly crisp and sharp with exceptional luster.
• Dial: The original champagne/gold textured dial is beautifully preserved with only slight, even vintage patina, giving it fantastic character while retaining clean legibility. Features stylized, bold Art Deco Arabic numerals and a subsidiary seconds sub-dial at the 6 o'clock position.
• Hands: Elegant, period-correct dark skeletonized hands showing some natural rust/corrosion consistent with age.
• Mechanical Status: The watch runs and ticks, but it has not been serviced or tested for long-term timekeeping accuracy. As with all centennial vintage timepieces, a routine professional cleaning and oiling is recommended if you plan on using it for daily wear.
• Inclusions: This listing is for the pocket watch only. No original box or papers are included, but it will be securely packaged and padded for safe transit.
Technical & Production Specifications:
• Movement Manufacturer: Elgin National Watch Co. (USA)
• Movement Serial Number: 25763739
• Estimated Production Year: 1923
• Size: 12 Size (Gentleman's dress size, approx. 1.55 inches across the movement)
• Grade: 303 (Model 3, Class 114)
• Jewel Count: 7 Jewels
• Setting Type: Stem Wind / Stem Set
• Movement Finish: Nickel plate featuring intricate geometric damaskeening
Case Details:
• Case Manufacturer: Illinois Watch Case Co.
• Case Model Line: "Spartan"
• Case Serial Number: 0403760
• Style: Geometric Art Deco Octagonal (8-sided) open-face case
• Design Features: Gorgeous vertical pinstripe (guilloché) engravings on the back panel, decorative floral/geometric borders, and a blank rectangular cartouche ready for a custom monogram.
