Elgin

1970s Elgin Automatic Diver Cal. 997

Elgin was a watch company originating from Elgin, Illinois, and was founded in 1864 under the name "National Watch Company" and officially became "Elgin National Watch Company" in 1874. The first wristwatch for Elgin came into production in 1910 and in the Second World War, Elgin produced both watches and military instruments for the United States Military. Unfortunately, Elgin disbanded in the year 1968. All US manufacturing was discontinued and the Elgin name was sold. After the Elgin name's initial sale, the name passed through several hands which resulted in some interesting pieces that were manufactured under the Elgin name from all over the world.

SPECS

Stock # ELGAUTO-2
Brand Elgin
Style Automatic Diver
Model N/A
Serial N/A
Size Men's
Material Stainless Steel
Dial Brown
Millimeters 36
Bracelet Elgin "Kevin Drema" Bracelet

CASE & BRACELET

The wonderful tonneau-style case appears to have been very lightly polished in the past and shows honest signs of light use. The rotating bakelite bezel in is excellent overall condition, showing no cracks or major scratches. The unsigned crown is believed to be the original to the watch, The case back retains all of its original factory markings. The original Elgin signed "Kevin Drema" bracelet is in great overall condition and retains 21 links that exhibit some light stretch from use. 

DIAL & HANDS

The original taupe sunburst dial features a red outer minute track and intricate makers that are top with bright yellow enamel making for a very retro and stylish overall aesthetic. The tritium lume plots have taken on a lovely creamy patina and display no degradation when inspected under U.V. light. The bright yellow original tritium hands match the dial perfectly, under U.V. light inspection the hour hand exhibits some very minor cracking and remains stable, the minute hand displays no degradation.

ACCESSORIES 

None. The watch is functioning and keeping time perfectly, previous service history is unknown.

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