Pocket Watch Database

Elgin Grade 50

Grade 50 is a 15j Interchangeable watch maufacturered by Elgin. The size 16s, Model 1 movement features a nickel finish and is adjusted. During the time the watch was manufactured, it would have qualified for railroad service and is considered to be railroad grade.

Grade 50 Movement Characteristics

  • Size16s
  • Jewels15j
  • ConfigurationInterchangeable
  • FinishNickel
  • Model1
  • SettingLever
  • AdjustedYes
  • Railroad GradeYes

Grade 50 Production Info

  • Total Production35,500
  • Number of Runs34
  • Production Years1879-1896
  • First Serial603,001
  • Last Serial6,435,500
  • Largest Run2,000
  • Smallest Run500
  • Most Common Run1,000

Research Notes

Hairspring was upgraded during production from flat to Breguet. The stud location corresponds with this upgrade, moving from the middle of the balance bridge to the end (approximately 1884).

#1,374,748: Verified as Flat [PWDB Contribution]
#1,398,304: Verified as Breguet [PWDB Contribution]

Statistical analysis indicates only the first 500 of the last designated run [6435001-6436000] were actually produced.

The August 19, 1892 issue of The Jewelers' Circular lists the No. 50 (along with the B.W. Raymond and No. 86) as accepted by William Walcott, time inspector of the Cincinnati, Hamilton and Dayton railroad (qualified as "Railroad Grade").