Railroad Grade Vintage Men's Elgin Pocket Watches
In this section, you will find a nice selection of vintage railroad-grade Elgin (or the earlier National Watch Co.) pocket watches that are typically considered gent's size, although in many cases would also be appropriate for a woman to carry. The Elgin watch company, out of Elgin, Illinois, was in business from 1864-1964, and while active, was the largest-producing American watch company, manufacturing an estimated half of all pocket watches ("dollar" watches not included).
To be a railroad grade watch, the following criteria must be met:
- be 16S or 18S
- have 17 or more jewels
- be lever set
- be in an open face case
- be adjusted to 5 or more positions
- have easily-legible Arabic dial numerals
As an additional resource, we've posted a Serial Number Production List which includes information for Elgin serial numbers and dates of manufacture.
For further information, examples, photos, and notes on how to wear our various styles of watches and watch accessories, please visit our How-To-Wear Guide.
Elgin 16S 19J LS adj. 5p B.W. Raymond Up & Down indicator #22168525 pocket watch, YGF SB&B case
Starting at: $795.00
HP465 - This item is currently for sale at our Etsy Store.
Elgin 16S 23J adj. 5p LS U&D indicator Veritas #20480319 pocket watch, YGF swing out case
Starting at: $1,600.00 $1,440.00
HP1092 - This item is currently available.
Elgin 18S 19J LS adj 5p B.W. Raymond pocket watch #10981880, heavy smooth polish YGF SB&B case
Starting at: $365.00
PM2847 - This item is currently for sale at our Etsy Store.
Elgin 16S 21J LS adj. 5p Father Time pocket watch #24794733, Elgin smooth polish YGF SB&B case
Starting at: $445.00
PM2862 - Thank you for your interest! This item has been sold as of 12/18.
Elgin 18S 19J LS adj. 5p B.W. Raymond pocket watch #9949652, YGF SB&B GB&B salesman's display case
Starting at: $345.00
PM2823 - This item is currently for sale at our Etsy Store.