Pocket Watch Database

Elgin Grade 162

Grade 162 is a 21j Openface watch maufacturered by Elgin. The size 16s, Model 7 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 162 Movement Characteristics

  • Size16s
  • Jewels21j
  • ConfigurationOpenface
  • FinishNickel
  • Model7
  • SettingPendant
  • AdjustedYes
  • Railroad GradeYes
  • Railroad Grade ClassClass F

Grade 162 Production Info

  • Total Production2,650
  • Number of Runs4
  • Production Years1896-1911
  • First Serial6,469,001
  • Last Serial15,158,050
  • Largest Run1,000
  • Smallest Run50
  • 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, 1914, 1907 A.C. Becken)
"Adjusted to Temperature and Positions", D.S. Soft Enamel Dial - 1898 S.F. Meyer Catalog
1897 BH: "Fine Adjustment" - DS Glass Enamel Dial
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 162 paired with a "Double Sunk Soft Enamel Dial" and "First Quality Moon Hands"

Based on observations and statistical analysis, Grade 162 production was terminated after the first 600 during the third run. There is no indication that the last run assigned was actually produced.

6463001-6470000: 1,000
7437001-7438000: 1,000
8497001-8498000: First 600
15158001-15159000: Not Made
Total Estimated Production: 2,600

Associated Grades

156