Masthead

Elgin National Grade 6 "Sidewinder" pocket watch

I believe they were actually the National Watch Company, based in Elgin, Illinois, but incorporated the city into their official name at some point.

Elgin concentrated on middle-class watches: lots of 7 through 15-jewel jobs. Not the best, but you don't need 23 jewels to get the job done. This was my father's favorite brand, so I have a bunch of them.

Elgin grade 316This is my Elgin Grade 6. Going by the serial number it was made in 1881. It is size 18, 7 jewels, pendant wind, lever set. The case is a Fahys OreSilver No. 1, as is my much later Elgin Grade 316.

Very similar to my Grade 111 but a little older.

Acquired: 2019

Circa: 1881

Current condition: not working, don't know the problem.