Don't miss the next drop
This stunning timepiece, dating to 1936, is not merely a vintage watch; it is a true pre-war artifact and a sublime expression of the Art Deco era. The 1930s were a time of incredible stylistic innovation, where the sleek, geometric, and forward-looking principles of Art Deco and Streamline Moderne touched everything from architecture to wristwatches. The rectangular “tank” style was the height of fashion, and this Lord Elgin, with its elegant curved tonneau case, was at the cutting edge of design. Powering this piece is the fantastic Grade 531, a beautifully finished, 21-jewel manually-wound movement made right in Elgin, U.S.A. This was an American-made, in-house caliber that was built to last and perform with the best of them.
This particular example is a wonderfully honest survivor. The silver dial is a study in classic 1930s design, featuring a crisp railroad minute track, a rectangular subsidiary seconds register, and a full set of stylized Arabic numerals. The dial is proudly signed “Lord Elgin,” complete with the signature star emblem that designated the brand’s top-tier models. The elegant, gold-filled case is beautifully curved to hug the wrist—an ergonomic consideration that was revolutionary for its time and remains incredibly comfortable to wear today.
For a watch that is rapidly approaching its 90th birthday, its condition is truly remarkable. The dial has developed a beautiful and even patina, a warm, creamy hue with gentle spotting that speaks to its incredible journey through history. The printed details remain sharp and legible, and the gilt spade handset is in excellent shape. The case shows the honest wear of a cherished object, with softened edges and minor scratches that tell the story of a long and well-loved life.
