Swiss Elgin
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled, Rose Gold
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled, Yellow Gold
Antique 1890s American Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1930s North American Art Deco Collectible Jewelry
Crystal, Metal
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Carriage Clocks and Travel Clocks
Chrome
Vintage 1950s Swiss Contemporary Pocket Watches
Swiss Wrist Watches
Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches
Stainless Steel, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Swiss Wrist Watches
Vintage 1950s Swiss Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled
Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Wrist Watches
Gold-filled, White Gold
Vintage 1940s Swiss Wrist Watches
Base Metal
20th Century Swiss Pocket Watches
Gilt Metal
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Swiss Elgin For Sale on 1stDibs
How Much is a Swiss Elgin?
Finding the Right Wrist-watches for You
Antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches have captured the hearts and minds of all manner of watch collectors as well as the watchmakers themselves — it's time you found your own.
Certain vintage watches for men and iconic watch designs for women are sought after not only because of their graceful proportions or innovative materials but also because of the illustrious histories of the houses that created them, histories that they stylishly embody.
Bulgari’s legendary Serpenti watch was on everyone’s list after the collection’s bold bracelet, which technically debuted after the timepiece, graced the wrist of actress Elizabeth Taylor. If anything, elaborately crafted timepieces — the unmistakably boxy silhouette of Cartier Tank watches, the elegant and minimal Calatrava designed by legendary Swiss house Patek Philippe — are even more effective than the shape we associate with traditional wristwatches.
Form watches — the all-encompassing moniker bestowed upon non-round watches — are making headlines and completing contemporary fashionable ensembles the world over. At the same time, both casual fans and careful collectors are drawn to the unbeatable charm of vintage styles, such as the icons designed by Omega that even James Bond can’t resist.
In the early days of watchmaking, watches were fragile enough that they necessitated protection from the elements. Now, wristwatches made of gold and steel can withstand the harshest climates — even 100 meters underwater, in the case of Rolex’s Submariner. Designer Gérald Genta, whose range of clients included Rolex, created for Audemars Piguet the first luxury sports timepiece to be made from stainless steel. First introduced in 1972, the Royal Oak was a perfect choice for blending the form and function that are now synonymous with sports watches.
Are you shopping for a wristwatch? It’s good to keep your needs as well as your specific personal style in mind: A smaller, subtle timepiece is a good fit for small wrists. When will you be wearing your new accessory? There’s a versatile model out there for everyday wear, while a rugged, feature-heavy watch is a safe bet if you’re prone to embarking on all-weather activities in the great outdoors.
Find antique, vintage and luxury wristwatches for sale on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021It 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Some 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 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 17, 2024Yes, 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.