ELGIN WATCH COMPANY was a leading American watch manufacturer that operated from 1864 to 1968, founded by a group of investors in Elgin, Illinois, and quickly became one of the most successful watchmakers in the United States. 

The early years of the company were marked by rapid expansion and innovation. In 1874, the company introduced the first full plate movement, which was more durable and accurate than previous designs. In 1875, Elgin introduced the first watch with a stem winding and setting mechanism, which became the industry standard. The company was also known for its high-quality movements and its innovative designs, which included the first wristwatch with an alarm and the first watch with a shock-resistant balance.  

During World War II, Elgin produced watches for the military, including the A-11, which became known as the "Watch That Won the War." After the war, the company continued to produce watches, but faced increasing competition from foreign manufacturers and the rise of quartz technology.   

In 1968, the company ceased production and its assets were sold to a group of investors. The Elgin name has since been used by various companies, but the original Elgin Watch Company is remembered as one of the most important American watchmakers in history. 

 “Elgin, The Watchword for Elegance and Efficiency.”

By the early 20th century, Elgin was producing over 1 million watches per year and was the largest producer of fine watches in the world.

ELGIN 
SWISSSONIC 
Day/Date 
Wristwatch 

It is a vintage Elgin Swissonic wristwatch from the 1970s, featuring a Swissonic electric quartz movement. The watch includes a central second hand, as well as day and date indicators, and is proudly Swiss-made. This model is a prime example of the early Swiss quartz electric watches. 

The watch is housed in a distinctive 44.2mm oval case, with a base metal bezel and a stainless steel back, offering a unique and elegant design.

The gold and blue dial showcases a stunning layout, perfectly complemented by gold baton hour markers, luminous dots, a bold minute/second track, and matching gold and blue hands. The dial is also signed with the ELGIN name at the top.

It is paired with a brand-new Hadley-Roma black genuine leather two-piece strap.

After more than 50 years, this wristwatch is still in good condition, runs very well! NEW BATTERY!

Thank you for looking!  Please feel free to contact us with any questions or respectful offers.   
 
Case Back Markings: 
Base Metal Bezel 
Stainless Steel Back 

Measurements (mm):
Case 44.2 
Case with Crown 45.3  
Case Lug to Lug 40  
Case Thickness     14  
Lug Width 19  
Band Width 19       

Vintage watches are traditionally smaller than today's watches. Men’s watches typically measure between 29-36mm wide (some larger, some smaller) excluding the crown. In the listing details we typically try to do our best to list all pertinent dimensions of a watch. If you don't see it, or we failed to do so, please reach out to us. Women’s watches from the 1900s-1970s were also much smaller than today's offerings. Please also feel free to ask any questions you have pertaining to size.  

We prefer to shoot photographs outside when weather is permitting. However, when we shoot indoors, please be aware that we shoot our photographs inside of lightboxes that are lit with 360 LED bulbs. This indeed magnifies any flaws. Usually, they are much less obvious to the naked eye. Having said that, we never photoshop any of our photography, remove blemishes, etc. We adjust the lighting, when necessary, but what you see is what you are getting, and we take pride in that. 

The condition is pre-owned.  
The item may have some signs of cosmetic wear but is fully operational and functions as intended.
Please review the photos and feel free to ask any questions you may have. 

It will be carefully packed. 

Please view our other listings. 
Thank you for looking! 

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