Nov 8, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
Watch is in working, running condition but is untested for timekeeping, offered as-is.
Elgin National Watch Co. 15-jewel pocket watch – 14K gold-filled hunter case – late 19th-century American craftsmanship.
Presented here is a handsome late 19th-century pocket watch by the Elgin National Watch Company, one of the premier names in American horology. This example, serial number 996006, dates to approximately 1881, during Elgin’s early period of fine mechanical production.
The white enamel dial features Roman numerals, an elegant sub-seconds dial at 6 o’clock, and slender blued steel spade-style hands. The dial is marked “Elgin Nat’l Watch Co.” and exhibits a classic, balanced design typical of the Victorian period. It presents in excellent condition with minimal visible wear.
The 15-jewel gilt movement is signed:
“Elgin Nat’l Watch Co., Elgin, Ill., 996006.”
The movement shows fine damaskeened decoration and precision machining. It features screw-set jewels, a bimetallic balance, and lever escapement — all components reflecting the company’s reputation for reliable, accurate timekeeping. The movement is housed within a stunning 14K gold-filled hunter-style case, likely produced by one of Elgin’s associated American casemakers.
The outer covers exhibit floral and geometric engraving with a detailed raised pattern, including hand-engraved blossom motifs that retain sharpness and warmth of tone. The hinges are firm, and the lids open and close properly.
This watch winds and sets correctly; its running condition is untested and it is offered as-is.
The Elgin National Watch Company was known for its blend of aesthetic appeal and technical dependability. Watches from this era — particularly those housed in decorative gold-filled hunter cases — are sought after by collectors for their beauty and craftsmanship.
Comparable Elgin 15-jewel gold-filled models from the same production range typically sell between $400 and $650, depending on cosmetic and mechanical condition.
This example, with its well-preserved floral case and clean movement, is valued around $575.
Offered for sale as-is, this Elgin 15-jewel hunter pocket watch is a fine example of American horological artistry—a piece that captures the elegance and engineering excellence of Elgin’s golden age.
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Invoices totaling over $1500.00 must be paid by wire transfer or cashiers check.
Offered for sale as-is, this Elgin 15-jewel hunter pocket watch is a fine example of American horological artistry—a piece that captures the elegance and engineering excellence of Elgin’s golden age.
Watch is in working, running condition but is untested for timekeeping, offered as-is.
Details:
Maker: Elgin National Watch Co., Elgin, Illinois
Serial Number: 996006
Jewels: 15
Case Material: 14K Gold-Filled
Case Style: Hunter Case with floral engraving
Dial: White enamel with Roman numerals and sub-seconds dial
Hands: Blued steel
Movement: Gilt finish, lever escapement, bimetallic balance, screw-set jewels
Era: Circa 1881
Condition: Excellent antique condition; clean dial; bright case with crisp engraving; winds and sets properly; untested for timekeeping.
Shipping
Shipping & Pick-Up Information
General Policy:
Buyers are responsible for all shipping costs. Shipping information is not included in the purchase price of your item(s).
If you are the successful bidder, you may either:
Have your items shipped via Best Estate Services, Inc. in-house shipping department, or Collect your property in person during the designated local pick-up period.
For all shipping and pick-up inquiries, please contact us at:
📧 hello@bestestateservices.com
📞 (262) 799-5167
8. Shipping Details
All shipping will be handled in-house by Best Estate Services, Inc. via USPS unless otherwise arranged. A flat handling fee of $15.00 per package will be applied and added to your invoice along with the applicable USPS postage cost. Shipping and handling fees will appear as separate line items on your invoice. Packages will be shipped once payment for both the item(s) and shipping has been received and cleared. Tracking information will be provided via email once your package has been processed.
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9. Local Pick-Up
All local pick-up arrangements must be made by Tuesday End of Day following the close of the auction. Local pickups are subject to a flat $5.00 handling fee. Local pick-up will take place 8 days after the close of the auction, on the following Monday between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
Important Pick-Up Rules:
No cash will be accepted at local pick-up locations. All invoices must be paid online prior to arrival.
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Pick-ups are by appointment only within the designated time window.
Please contact us promptly if you are unable to attend the scheduled pick-up so alternate arrangements can be discussed.
10. Storage Fees
All items must be picked up or have shipping arranged within two (2) weeks of the auction close.
Items left beyond that time will incur a storage fee of $10 per lot per day, regardless of size or value.
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📧 hello@bestestateservices.com
📞 (262) 799-5167
Available payment options
Thank you for bidding with Best Estate Services. The auction has now closed. Winning bidders can expect to receive an invoice for their winning lots and a separate shipping invoice within the next 48–72 hours. This invoice can be paid directly through the payment link sent to you. Please note that your winning bid invoice and shipping invoice are two separate invoices. If pickup is available for your items, you will have the option to select pickup when you receive notification from our shipping department. After selecting pickup, you will be notified of the pickup location and available pickup time window. Thank you again for participating in our auction.