Bidspirit auction | Vintage 1937 Elgin Art Deco
Vintage 1937 Elgin Art Deco Gold Tone Tonneau Wristwatch with Gemex Expansion Bracelet - A vintage manual wind wristwatch produced by the Elgin National Watch Co. circa 1937. The watch features an Art Deco tonneau-shaped case constructed of gold-tone plated base metal, manufactured by the Star Watch Case Company. The off-white dial is detailed with applied gold-tone Arabic numeral hour markers and a black railroad-style minute track. The timepiece is powered by an Elgin USA manual wind movement, stamped with serial number 37219726. The inner case back is marked Cased and Timed by Elgin National Watch Co., Star Watch Case Company, and serial number 3135153, accompanied by several hand-scribed jeweler service marks. The watch is fitted with a period-correct gold-tone Gemex expansion bracelet marked Made in U.S.A. Case length: 38 mm Case width: 25 mm (excluding crown). The watch is in worn vintage condition. The dial shows significant foxing, spotting, and age-related discoloration across the surface. The gold plating on the case exhibits heavy wear and brassing, particularly on the high points, edges, and lugs. The crystal has numerous surface scratches. The movement appears intact, but the mechanical functionality and timekeeping accuracy have not been tested. Professional cleaning and servicing are recommended.