Pocket Watch Database

Elgin Grade 156

Grade 156 is a 21j Hunting watch maufacturered by Elgin. The size 16s, Model 6 movement features a nickel finish and is adjusted to 5 positions, isochronism and temperature. During the time the watch was manufactured, it would have qualified for railroad service and is considered to be railroad grade. Each movement was fitted at the factory with a double-sunk dial.

Grade 156 Movement Characteristics

  • Size16s
  • Jewels21j
  • ConfigurationHunting
  • FinishNickel
  • Model6
  • SettingPendant
  • AdjustedYes
  • Railroad GradeYes
  • Railroad Grade ClassClass F

Grade 156 Production Info

  • Total Production3,200
  • Number of Runs4
  • Production Years1896-1909
  • First Serial6,463,001
  • Last Serial13,504,200
  • Largest Run1,000
  • Smallest Run200
  • Most Common Run1,000

Research Notes

Introduced November 1895 as part of the new product line, "Elgin's Latest New (1895) Model" (Keystone)

Soft Enamel (1896, 1898-SF) to Glass Enamel (1903, 1904-BH, c.1915-D, 1907 A.C. Becken)
"Adjusted to Temperature and Positions", DS Soft-Enamel Dial - 1898 S.F Meyer Catalog
1903 No. 76 - DS Glass Enamel Dial
1907 A.C. Becken: "red ruby jewels" "adjusted to temperature, isochronism and positions" "glass enamel dial"

Elgin advertisement in the Keystone Magazine introducing the 1895 Models describes Grade 156 paired with a "Double Sunk Soft Enamel Dial" and "First Quality Moon Hands"

Based on observations and statistical analysis, only the first 200 of the last Grade 156 run was actually manufactured.

6463001-6464000: 1,000
6995001-6996000: 1,000
10249001-10250000: 1,000
13504001-13505000: First 200
Total Estimated Production: 3,200

According to Material Catalogs, the movement was upgraded to a double-roller escapement beginning with serial #10249901.

Associated Grades

162