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Dear Friend and Fellow Collector,
Hello there—I'm so glad you've stopped by to take a look at this truly special piece. My name is [Your Name], and I've been cherishing and sharing vintage treasures like this from my small-town collection for years now. There's something wonderfully heartfelt about these old watches; they carry stories of lives well-lived, elegant evenings, and quiet moments of reflection. Today, I'm honored to offer you this exquisite vintage Elgin ladies' Art Deco wristwatch, a rare gem from the 1920s-1930s era that whispers of a bygone time when craftsmanship was an art form and every tick marked a memory. If you're like me—a kindred spirit who appreciates the gentle patina of history—this watch might just steal your heart, as it has mine.
Let me paint a picture for you: Imagine slipping this delicate octagonal beauty onto your wrist, feeling the warm glow of its gold-filled case against your skin, and watching those deep blue steel hands glide gracefully across the golden dial. It's not just a timepiece; it's a portal to the Roaring Twenties and the sophisticated Thirties, when ladies donned their finest for jazz-filled nights or afternoon teas. The Art Deco design, with its bold geometric octagonal shape and subtle engravings, evokes the glamour of that era—the skyscrapers of New York, the sparkle of Hollywood, and the quiet strength of the women who wore such pieces through life's joys and challenges. Perhaps it belonged to a beloved grandmother, a trailblazing professional, or a romantic dreamer; whoever she was, this watch carries her spirit, waiting to become part of your own story.
Now, let's talk details, as I believe in being thorough and transparent, just like folks in my little hometown where a handshake seals the deal. This Elgin ladies' wristwatch features a distinctive octagonal case, measuring about 25-30mm across (perfect for a dainty wrist, as shown in the photos with a ruler for scale). The case is 14k gold-filled, with that rich, aged luster that only true vintage pieces possess—some gentle wear and scratches that tell of its authentic journey, but no major dents or damage. The back lid showcases a beautifully engraved monogram in a diamond-shaped motif, adding a personal touch that makes it feel like a family heirloom. I've included close-up photos so you can see every nuance; it's all there, honest and unpolished.
The dial is a warm gold tone, adorned with crisp black Arabic numerals that stand out elegantly against the subtle texture. Those blue steel hands—oh, they're a standout feature, with the hour and minute hands shaped like delicate spades, and a slim seconds hand ticking away in the sub-dial at the 6 o'clock position. There's some natural patina on the dial, a soft aging that adds character without detracting from its readability. It's powered by Elgin's reliable manual-wind movement (likely a 17-jewel grade, based on similar models from the period), though I haven't opened the case recently—it's in as-found condition, and while it winds smoothly, it may need a gentle servicing by your trusted watchmaker to run like new. That's the beauty of these antiques; they're meant to be revived and loved anew.
The bracelet is a matching gold-filled link design, expandable for comfort, with a fold-over clasp that secures it snugly. It's about 6-7 inches when closed, ideal for a smaller wrist, but easily adjustable at any jeweler. Overall, this watch weighs in with that satisfying heft of quality materials, reminding you it's built to last generations.
But what truly sets this Elgin apart—and tugs at the heartstrings—is its rapidly increasing rarity. As a small-town enthusiast who's scoured auctions, estates, and forums, I can tell you: pieces like this are vanishing. Elgin, founded in 1864 in Illinois, was America's premier watchmaker, producing millions of timepieces that symbolized reliability and style. Yet, with the rise of quartz in the 1970s, many were lost to time. This octagonal Art Deco model, likely from the late 1920s to early 1930s (based on style guides from sites like Waterstone Watches and Pocket Watch Database), represents a pinnacle of their ladies' line—fewer than ever surface in this condition. Collectors are snapping them up, driving values upward; similar examples on eBay and 1stDibs have fetched $200-$500, and with demand growing among vintage fashion lovers and horology aficionados, this could be your last chance to own one before they're museum-bound. It's not just an investment; it's a legacy, a tangible link to history that grows more precious each year.
I want you to feel completely at ease with your purchase, my friend. That's why I'm offering free shipping within the US, carefully packaged with insurance for peace of mind. International buyers, please reach out—I'll work out fair rates. And with eBay's Money Back Guarantee plus my own 30-day return policy (just return it in the same condition), there's no risk, only the joy of discovery. If you have questions—about the watch, its history, or even tips on caring for it—I'm here, happy to chat like old neighbors over coffee.
This Elgin isn't for everyone; it's for the discerning soul who values emotion over flash, rarity over commonality. Picture it on your wrist during a family gathering, sparking conversations about the past, or passed down to a loved one as a cherished heirloom. In a world of mass-produced gadgets, this is real, handcrafted magic. Buy with confidence, or grab it now—either way, I hope it brings you as much delight as it's brought me. Thank you kindly for considering this treasure; may it find a home where it's truly appreciated.
Warm regards,
NICHOLAS S. ANTOLICK - Small-Town Vintage Collector
Specifications Summary (for Easy Reference):
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))
_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))
Condition: Pre-owned - Fair
| Type | Wristwatch |
|---|---|
| Brand | Unbranded |
| Year Manufactured | Pre-1920 |
| Vintage | No |
| Theme | Awareness |
| Features | 12-Hour Dial |
| Country of Origin | Afghanistan |
| Unit Type | Unit |
| Department | Men |
| Customized | Yes |
| Style | Casual |
| Model | A. Lange & Söhne 1815 |
| Movement | Mechanical (Automatic) |
| Dial Color | Aubergine |
| Band Color | Beige |
| Bezel Color | Aubergine |
| Case Color | Beige |
| Band Material | Alloy |
| Display | Analog |
| Case Material | Aluminum |
| Water Resistance | 3 m (0.3 ATM) |
| With Original Box/Packaging | Yes |
| With Papers | Yes |
| Indices | Arabic Numerals |
| Case Size | 10 mm |
| Watch Shape | Asymmetrical |
| Band/Strap | Bangle |
| Number of Jewels | 2 Jewels |
| Dial Pattern | Animal Print |
| Bezel Type | 12-Hour |
| Caseback | Exhibition |
| Band Width | 5 mm |
| Lug Width | 5 mm |
| With Manual/Booklet | Yes |
| Case Finish | Brushed |
| Seller Warranty | Yes |
| With Service Records | No |
| Handmade | Yes |
| Manufacturer Warranty | 1 Month |
| Case Thickness | 5 mm |
| Escapement Type | Anchor |
| Handedness | Left |
| Closure | Buckle |
| Max Wrist Size | 5.5-5.75 in |
From The Spiderpunk Web collection of authentic antiques and collectibles. Ships from the United States with tracking.