#205 • Elgin, prototype split-seconds chronograph w/sweep minute recorder

Part of 261022 - "Fall Featured Auction" Horology, Jewelry & Coins - October 1 - 22 (live auction by Jones & Horan Auctions)

High bid $7,100.00

Status: Sold

APW - Elgin, prototype split-seconds chronograph with "creeper" style sweep minute recorder, 51mm, HC model mvt in sidewinder orientation in 16K gold (tested via XRF analysis) OF display case with hunting style spring-loaded front, case with no provision for an inner front bezel or for a cuvette, canister style (friction fit) white enamel SS dial, SW-LS, lever escapement, at least 16J, nickel damascene, s#1325793. Gross weight of assembled watch 70.6 dwt (109.9 g). An extraordinary piece for the Elgin collector, the present watch represents an exceedingly rare, if not unique, prototype for a highly complicated Elgin product that ultimately never reached regular production. In particular, this watch's style of central "creeper" minute counter is a feature that is not only unknown among Elgin's regular production, but is equally unknown among the totality of regular American machine-made watch production. The dial of this watch is also quite interesting, as it bears a general resemblance to those used on Elgin's "doctor's watch" production, but differs notably in incorporating a subsidiary seconds register, which the doctor's watch lacks. More subtly, the arrangement of the minute and 1/5-second registers around the perimeter is also different, indicating that this dial was purpose-made for the present watch rather than being a simple modification of an existing design. In all, a fascinating bit of Elgin history that is the most complicated Elgin design we have encountered, and quite possibly represents the greatest stage of complication that Elgin ever attempted. CONDITION: Mvt: Running, good chronograph, split-seconds, and minute recorder functions, excellent cosmetic mvt condition overall, some typical scattered micro-fine scratches and small surface nicks, train bridge with some mild ultra-fine scratch striations from past wiping(s); flawless dial; excellent-plus hands; case shows little wear, no dents, band with good engine turning detail to its front and rear portions and reduction of fine reeding detail at its central portion, front hinge missing both end-caps; tight bow thinned at top, crown shows ample wear with ridge break; clean plastic crystals. Estimate: $3,000 - $6,000 JH-79934