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Antique Elgin National Watch Co. pocket watch – keywind Model 2 movement – Fahys Coin Silver No.1 case – serial #5168024 – circa 1888.

A handsome late-19th-century Elgin National Watch Co. pocket watch, an excellent example of early American horology. The movement bears the serial number 5168024, which dates to approximately 1888. It features a gilded three-quarter plate movement, engraved “Elgin Nat’l Watch Co.”, and includes a “Safety Pinion”—a signature Elgin innovation that helped prevent damage to the train in the event of a mainspring break.

The balance cock is elegantly hand-engraved with a geometric motif, and the blued-steel screws and polished regulator pointer highlight the precision of Elgin’s production during this golden era of American watchmaking.

This watch is housed in a Fahys Coin Silver No.1 case, stamped on the inside back cover with:

Additional patent dates stamped inside the dust cover read:
“Pat. Apr. 5, 1881” and “Pat. Apr. 22, 1884”—confirming this as an original Fahys case from the 1880s. The case also shows hand-engraved watchmaker service marks, a testament to its long life and professional maintenance.

The dial is a clean white enamel with Roman numerals, blued-steel spade hands, and a seconds subdial at 6 o’clock, signed “Elgin Nat’l Watch Co.” The simplicity of the face contrasts elegantly with the rich, warm tone of the movement and silver case.

Value and Sale Information:

This piece represents an important chapter in Elgin’s early production, demonstrating the brand’s technical sophistication and widespread popularity in late-19th-century America. The Fahys Coin Silver No.1 case adds substantial collector appeal, being one of the most respected American case manufacturers of the period.

Comparable Elgin keywind pocket watches in coin silver cases typically bring $350–$600, with condition and originality driving value.

This particular example, with its complete movement, original Fahys case, and excellent presentation, is valued around $475.

Offered for sale as-is.

A well-preserved Elgin National Watch Co. pocket watch, combining robust 19th-century engineering with a classic silver American case — a fine addition to any vintage timepiece collection.

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Condition: Very good for age; case shows light wear and even patina; dial clean with faint hairlines; movement visually clean; not tested for running condition.

Offered for sale as-is.

Invoices totaling over $1500.00 must be paid by wire transfer or cashiers check.

A well-preserved Elgin National Watch Co. pocket watch, combining robust 19th-century engineering with a classic silver American case — a fine addition to any vintage timepiece collection.