Are Elgin watches real gold?

Whether or not Elgin watches are gold depends on the timepiece in question. The watchmaker designed a range of pocket watches and wristwatches made of 10-karat gold, 14-karat gold and 18-karat gold, while some of the company’s other accessories are gold-filled or gold-plated. (Gold-filled jewelry doesn’t have a lot of gold, but it has more gold than gold-plated jewelry.)

As vintage watches of all kinds are making a comeback — even watchmakers such as Patek Philippe, Breitling and Omega are reissuing mid-century models — Elgin watches are in high demand on the secondary market.

Find antique Elgin watches and other watches on 1stDibs.