A fine Mid-Century Modern Elgin lady's watch. In 14 karat white gold. Prong-set with diamonds in a halo surrounding the dial and to the lugs on each end. With a block letter ELGIN and index hour markers to the face. Set with a Speidel gold-plated and black cord watch...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Modern Elgin

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

Antique Ladies Hunter Elgin 4 Color Gold Pocket Watch and 18k Gold Chain

H 0.09 in Dm 0.63 in

Antique Ladies Hunter Elgin 4 Color Gold Pocket Watch and 18k Gold Chain

By Elgin

Located in New York, NY

This exquisite Antique 14k four color gold hunter case pocket watch made by the Elgin Company around 1908 (based on movement serial # 13333340) features an elaborately decorated 14 c...

Category

Early 1900s American Late Victorian Antique Elgin

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold

Antique Elgin Pocket Watch 11j 8s Grade 94 Etched Yellow Gold Tone Hunter Case

Dm 42.25 in

Antique Elgin Pocket Watch 11j 8s Grade 94 Etched Yellow Gold Tone Hunter Case

By Elgin

Located in Montclair, NJ

This beautiful antique Elgin pocket watch features a solid yellow gold tone double full hunter case, finely decorated with elegant engine-turned detailing with floral and village hou...

Category

19th Century American Antique Elgin

Materials

Yellow Gold

Circa 1891 Beautiful Antique Elgin Pocket Watch 14k Solid Gold Case w/White Dial

By Elgin

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Circa 1891 Beautiful Antique Elgin Pocket Watch w/ Ornate Cobalt Blue Hands & Dedicated Second Dial 14k Solid Gold Case w/ Beautiful Colored...

Category

20th Century American Elgin

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold

Masonic Elgin pocket watch 1900s Gold Filled

W 1.78 in L 2.37 in

Masonic Elgin pocket watch 1900s Gold Filled

By Elgin

Located in Wallkill, NY

1900s Hand painted Masonic Elgin pocket watch - In working condition Manufacturer: Elgin Manufacturer Location: Elgin, Illinois Movement Serial Number: 20834797 Grade: 3...

Category

1910s Vintage Elgin

Materials

Gold-filled

Elgin National 14K Yellow Gold Pocket Watch w Gold Chain and Elks Tooth Fob

By Elgin

Located in Mount Kisco, NY

Capture a piece of history in time. This grand 14 karat yellow gold, circa 1891 Elgin National GM Wheeler Grade 103 Model 3 Pocket Watch is a true find. Manufactured pre-1900 by one of America's most highly respected watch makers of the period, its journey began with a personalization for M.M. Buss, 1893. Added at a later date and complementing this fine pocket watch is an impressive high quality, heavy gauge 14 karat yellow gold rope watch...

Category

1890s American Antique Elgin

Materials

14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Elgin Steel Art Deco Tank Watch with Original Bracelet and Dial from 1923

By Elgin

Located in Long Beach, CA

FACTORY / HOUSE: Elgin Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Art Deco / Tank Style METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1923 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 35mm "Lug Tip to Lug Tip"...

Category

1920s American Art Deco Vintage Elgin

Materials

Stainless Steel

Elgin 10K Gold-Filled Vintage Wristwatch

By Elgin

Located in Wailea, HI

Elgin 10K Gold-Filled Vintage Wristwatch, 26 x 31 mm This elegant vintage Elgin wristwatch is a fine example of American horological craftsmanship. Housed in...

Category

Early 20th Century Art Deco Elgin

Browse all Jewelry from Elgin

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Elgin Sale Prices

Sold Date

Sold Price

Category

Material

Creation Year

2026	$1,100	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled, Yellow Gold	1940's
2026	$800	Wrist Watches		1950's
2026	$1,150	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled	1950's
2026	$975	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled, Yellow Gold	1940's
2026	$725	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled	1940's
2026	$440	Wrist Watches, Pocket Watches	Gold Plate	1905
2026	$925	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled	1940's
2025	$479	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled	Unknown
2025	$950	Pocket Watches		1918
2025	$825	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled	1940's
2025	$750	Pocket Watches	Gold Plate	1886
2025	$523	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled	1940's
2025	$775	Wrist Watches	Gold-filled	1930's
2025	$620	Pocket Watches	Gold-filled	Unknown
2025	$1,950	Wrist Watches	White Gold	1920's
2025	$495	Wrist Watches	14k Gold	Unknown
2025	$1,500	Wrist Watches	White Gold	1920's

$881

Average sold price of items in the past 12 months

$440-$1,950

Sold price range of items in the past 12 months

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Elgin jewelry & watches for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a range of Elgin jewelry & watches available on 1stDibs. Each of these unique items was designed with extraordinary care, often using gold. While looking for the most stylish antique or vintage Elgin jewelry to pair with your ensemble, you’ll find that Elgin diamond jewelry & watches, from our inventory of 4, can add a particularly distinctive touch to your look. We have 80 pieces in this collection as well as a number of other designs by this jeweler. While this collection reflects work that originated over various time periods, most of these items were designed during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider jewelry & watches by Waltham, Waltham Watch Company, and Bulova. Prices for Elgin jewelry & watches can differ depending upon gemstone, time period and other attributes. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $475 and tops out at $12,475, while pieces like these, on average, can sell for $1,100.

Questions About Elgin

Are Elgin pocket watches worth anything?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
It depends on the materials that the watches are made with, the significance of the model and the year of production. Railroad pocket watches can range from $200 to $5000.
Are Elgin watches worth anything?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Some Elgin watches can be worth as much as $5,000 because of their make, model and age. In most cases, though, Elgin watches sell in the $200-$500 range.
Are Elgin watches valuable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 17, 2024
Yes, Elgin watches are valuable. The American watchmaker’s timepieces are widely favored by collectors all over the world. Watch lovers won’t likely pay more than a few hundred dollars for a vintage model, while rare Elgin timepieces, especially Art Deco-era wristwatches sporting gold cases, will fetch much higher sums. Whether or not an antique Elgin watch is a good investment, however, will depend upon factors such as rarity, condition, materials and more.

The Elgin National Watch Company was founded in Elgin, Illinois, in 1864 and was at one time the largest manufacturer of watches in the United States. In 1867, Elgin introduced its first watch — a pocket watch.

In the late 1800s, the open-face pocket watch became a staple on the American railroad. It was a requirement for railway workers to wear a pocket watch, as the timepieces were responsible for keeping conductors on schedule. This was a boon to the watchmaking industry, with companies like Hamilton, Elgin and the Waltham Watch Company producing high-grade and workingman’s watches. So-called “railroad watches” were among the finest watches of the era, and Elgin railroad watches are coveted today by watch enthusiasts.

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.

At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Buyers should keep in mind that the value of any investment is subject to fluctuation, and any investment decisions should be made according to the guidance of a financial advisor.

Find vintage and antique Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between Elgin and Lord Elgin?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between Elgin and Lord Elgin is that one is the name of a watchmaker, and the other is the name of a line of watches. Elgin is the shortened name for the Elgin National Watch Company, founded in 1863 in Elgin, Illinois. One of the manufacturer's most well-known pocket watches was the Lord Elgin, which debuted during the first decade of the 20th century. A wristwatch version of the timepiece hit the market in the 1930s. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of Elgin watches.
What is Elgin American?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Elgin American was an American brand known for producing watches, jewelry and compacts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Illinois Watchcase Company owned it. In 1901, the company abandoned the Elgin name due to trademark infringement claims made by the Elgin National Watch Co. Find a selection of Elgin American art, jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
Are Elgin watches any good?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
Yes, many experts feel that Elgin watches are good from a quality standpoint. During its century in business, the American watchmaker developed a stellar reputation for producing reliable timepieces out of fine materials. Today, many styles of Elgin watches, particularly the company's railroad watches, are popular among collectors. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Elgin watches.
How do I identify my Elgin wristwatch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
To identify an Elgin wristwatch, examine the dial. Until 1960, all timepieces produced by the American watchmaker showed the "Elgin" name on the dial. After the 1960s, the dials typically displayed an "E" to signify the maker. You can also check the stamp on the back of the case. Most Elgin watches will have a four digit style number above a circular stamp that specifies the watch material. Below the circular stamp, you will usually find a series of numbers that relates to the case manufacturer. You can search for the style number using trusted online resources to identify the style name for many Elgin watches. A certified appraiser or experienced vintage watch dealer can also provide assistance with identifications. Shop a range of Elgin wristwatches on 1stDibs.
How do you date an Elgin watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
How you date an Elgin watch depends on its age. On watches produced before 1956, you should generally examine their movement serial number. The Elgin National Watch Company numbered its movements sequentially from its founding through 1955, so you can easily determine the age of a timepiece by cross-referencing the movement serial number with information provided by trusted online resources. For newer watches, a combination of dial markings and case model numbers can be used to determine the year of production. Again, you can consult trusted online resources for guidance. Another option is to have a knowledgeable watchmaker or antiques dealer examine your timepiece. Shop a variety of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
How much is an Elgin worth?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
How much an Elgin watch is worth depends on its materials, age, style, condition and other factors. Selling prices for Elgin watches that no longer function may be less than $100, while highly sought-after models in exceptional condition may be worth upwards of $10,000. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can help you determine the potential value of your timepiece. Find a selection of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
How can you tell if an Elgin watch is vintage?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
All Elgin watches are at least vintage, if not antiques. In the 1960s, the Elgin National Watch Company discontinued its watch production, and by the 1980s, the Elgin brand was phased out completely by the company it had previously merged with. Since any timepiece between 20 and 99 years old is vintage, many Elgin watches fall under that category. Any Elgin watch that is 100 years old or older is antique. You can identify an antique Elgin watch using the serial number, which you'll find inside the movement. By cross-referencing the serial number found on your timepiece to information published on trusted online resources, you can identify its year of production. If your watch doesn't have a serial number, it was likely produced in the 18th century, making it an antique. If you'd like assistance with dating your watch, consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a variety of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
How do I identify my Elgin pocket watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
The easiest way to identify your Elgin pocket watch is to enter the serial number into an authoritative online database. To find the serial number, open the timepiece and look at the inner movement. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Elgin pocket watches.
How do I spot a fake Elgin watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
To spot a fake Elgin watch, cross-reference the markings found on the back with information published on trusted online resources. Most timepieces feature a four-digit style number, a circular stamp that denotes the watch material and a series of numbers that identify the case manufacturer. By researching these numbers, you can usually determine the model of a timepiece. If your watch isn't a match for that model, it is unlikely to be authentic. A certified appraiser or other knowledgeable expert can also assist when authenticating Elgin watches. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Elgin watches.
What does Elgin watch grade mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
In Elgin watches, grade means what quality the timepieces are. Elgin assigned grades based on the type of movement and the type of finish on its watches. Higher grade watches tended to cost more than lower grade ones. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Elgin watches.
How can I find out how old my Elgin watch is?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
To find out how old your Elgin watch is, look on its back. Nearly all Elgin watches will have a serial number on their cases. Looking up this number in databases found on trusted online resources will help you determine approximately when your watch was made. If you need further assistance, consider consulting a certified appraiser or experienced dealer. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Elgin watches.
Who makes Elgin pocket watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
The answer to who makes Elgin pocket watches is a little complicated. In 1968, the Elgin National Watch Company closed and stopped producing its watches. However, the owners opted to license the Elgin name to other companies, allowing them to make their own watches that bear the brand’s name. The license changed hands a few times and, as of 2024, was the property of MZ Berger Inc. This company manufactures and sells Elgin pocket watches and wristwatches in China. These timepieces feature Japanese-made movements and bear little resemblance to the original pocket watches produced by Elgin. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Elgin watches.
When did Elgin stop making watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
Elgin stopped making watches in 1968. However, that wasn't the end of the Elgin brand. The Elgin National Watch Company sold the rights to its brand name to a Chinese company called MZ Berger Inc., which continues to manufacture watches under it to this day. Shop a collection of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
When were Lady Elgin watches made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
Lady Elgin watches were made in the mid-20th century. In the 1930s, Elgin introduced its now iconic collection of timepieces for women, drawing inspiration for its name from its existing line of Lord Elgin watches for men. Elgin continued to make the watches until the company closed in 1964. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Elgin watches.
Are Elgin watches made in the USA?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
Whether or not Elgin watches are made in the USA depends on their age. Elgin timepieces produced prior to 1968 were indeed manufactured in the U.S. Elgin operated factories in several cities, including Aurora and Elgin, Illinois; Lincoln, Nebraska; and Blaney, South Carolina. Sometime after Elgin ceased its operations, MZ Berger Inc. licensed its brand name and began producing its own line of Elgin watches in China. Explore a diverse assortment of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
Are Elgin watches real gold?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 10, 2024
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.
Are Elgin watches still made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
No, Elgin watches aren't still made. The Elgin National Watch Company stopped producing watches in 1968. However, it did license its name rights to a number of other watchmakers. Although they have the same name, timepieces manufactured under Elgin licensing agreements have no other connection to the ones made by the Elgin National Watch Company. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Elgin watches.
How can you tell if an Elgin watch is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
To tell if an Elgin watch is real, look for its identification numbers. Authentic Elgin watches usually have a reference number printed on their movements and a case number on their cases. Using trusted online resources, you can learn what characteristics watches that feature these numbers should display, such as the hands and dial color, and then compare them to your watch. Any mismatches may indicate that your timepiece is a replica. Alternatively, you can ask a certified appraiser or knowledgeable Elgin dealer or repair technician to authenticate your watch. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Elgin watches.
Is Elgin a high-end watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
Yes, many people consider an Elgin to be a high-end watch. The American watchmaker produced a line of luxury-grade timepieces, which it sold at aspirational price points. Interestingly, modern-day collectors tend to favor the company's mid- and entry-level watches. Its line of railroad pocket watches is especially popular. Explore a wide range of Elgin watches on 1stDibs.
How old are Elgin pocket watches?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertDecember 5, 2024
Elgin pocket watches are more than 150 years old. The first Elgin pocket watch debuted in 1867, and the Elgin National Watch Co. watchmaker continued to produce them until 1968. At the height of their popularity, Elgin pocket watches accounted for half of all pocket watches sold in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a range of Elgin watches.