Liking that Elgin river rat. Been trying to absorb Elgin and which are quality movements. Some internet sources are placing Elgin beneath the pecking order of Hamilton, Illinois, and Waltham in whatever American pocket watch snob hierarchy there may be. I don't have a valid opinion, but am trying to figure it out. Have seen claims that Elgin watches don't display the quality and workmanship the others can feature. I wouldn't know. Wouldn't recognize differencers if I dropped an entire crate of Elgin pocket watches on my big toe.
In fact I was in a nearby town 30 miles away and stopped in the pawn shops to browse. Saw a Elgin hunter in a really attractive case. Was gold plated I suppose. Couldn't find a hallmark and the markings didn't clue me on manufacturer. But, it was a gorgeous hue of gold in first rate unworn condition. Was engraved with a scene that just had to be Halstatt, Austria, complete with scroll border and scroll decoration on the other side. Was a smaller size hunter than a 16-18. Hinge springs didn't open the covers which had to be assisted to open. Movement was a decorated Elgin, with full plates, with pretty black inlaid scroll markings, and few jewels. Nice fire blued screws, all untouched. Tag claimed it was from the 1890s. $395. They'll usually deal, but I will have to return with better lenses for a thorough inspection and to take notes for research
if I determine that I would want it.
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