Penrose Antiques

Description

For sale we have an absolutely stunning gentleman's Lord Elgin 14ct solid gold watch dating from 1951.

The watch is quite small by today's standards, measuring 36mm from lug to lug by 28mm (including the crown), but is representative of the fashion in the 1940s and 1950s for the small and the sleek. Because of it's size, this watch would provide the perfect gift for a man or for a lady who would appreciate a unique and historical timepiece.

The case is in truly lovely condition showing minimal wear. However the back of the case carries an inscription dating it to 1952. Some people find inscriptions unattractive. However, in terms of evidencing the age of a watch they are superb and they also add that certain historical interest that I, and many other watch collectors find almost irresistible. Presentation watches also tended to be infrequently worn and were thus maintained in a near pristine condition. This is something that certainly applies to this watch.

The inside of the case is signed CASED AND TIMED BY ELGIN NATIONAL WATCH CO., WATCH CASE COMPANY, 14 KARAT GOLD, A906. A nice feature of this watch is that the inside of the case also carries service marks. Many watch repairers, signed/marked the inside of the watch-case when they serviced them and these can evidence a good service history.

What looks like the original dial is in a superb condition and consists of an outer hour chapter marked unusually with gold raised 12, 2. 4 8 and 10 Arabic numerals and a recessed subsidiary second hand located just above 6 o'clock position. The dial has a couple of tiny marks around the 12 and 4 o'clock positions, a tiny scratch just above the 8 o'clock position and a very minor blemish on the hour hand. These marks are all visible in the photographs but can only be seen in reality via a very close examination.

The lovely 556 grade 21 Jeweled movement is signed Elgin USA. serial number S775958. This serial number dates the watch to 1951, a date confirmed by the inscription on the case.

This watch is presented on a good quality nearly new brown calf leather watchstrap.