Are Elgin Pocket Watches Worth Any Money Nowadays?

Elgin pocket watches, manufactured by the Elgin National Watch Company from 1864 to 1968, are some of the most collected American timepieces in the world. Known for their mechanical precision and wide variety of styles, Elgin watches continue to attract interest from collectors, antique dealers, and horology enthusiasts alike. Is there a market for Elgin pocket watches? One aspect of Elgin collecting that many people are unaware of is the potential monetary value of certain models. The market for Elgin pocket watches has remained active, with demand driven by age, model, movement grade, and overall condition. Railroad-grade watches and solid gold cases tend to hold strong resale value, while low-jewel or heavily worn examples may only fetch modest prices.

The Market For Elgin Pocket Watches

The market for Elgin pocket watches spans from beginner collectors to serious horologists. Interest is particularly high for watches in "Mint Condition" with original cases, dials, and movements intact. Railroad-approved models and presentation watches also fetch premium prices. Online auctions, watch collector forums, antique shows, and estate sales are the most common places to buy and sell Elgin timepieces.

Factors Affecting Price

Condition and originality are crucial when determining value. Watches with original, working movements, clean dials, and cases free of wear or damage command significantly more than parts watches. Model and movement grade matter greatly—higher jewel counts and specific grades like B.W. Raymond or Father Time are more desirable. Case material also plays a role, with solid gold and gold-filled cases valued more than nickel or base metal. Serial number dating can further help identify early or rare examples.

Buying and Selling Elgin Pocket Watches

For those interested in buying and selling Elgin pocket watches, start by checking the watch’s serial number, typically located on the movement, to determine age and grade. Buyers should ensure the watch is in working condition or can be serviced. Presentation boxes and paperwork can increase appeal. Sellers should provide detailed photos of the dial, movement, and case hallmarks. Watch-specific forums, eBay, and antique watch dealers are popular venues for trading.

Who Buys Elgin Pocket Watches Today?

Watch collectors, vintage timepiece investors, and those with family heirlooms often drive the Elgin market. While many entry-level collectors seek affordable base models, high-end buyers focus on railroad-grade watches, rare movement grades, and early examples with historical provenance. Despite modern shifts toward wristwatches, interest in Elgin pocket watches remains steady. Not all Elgin pocket watches have monetary value, but some remain highly sought after—especially those with solid gold cases, higher jewel counts, or connections to railroad certification standards.

Top 5 Elgin Pocket Watches to Hunt For

1. B.W. Raymond Railroad Grade (21 Jewel, Lever Set) – A classic railroad timepiece, valued at $400–$1,200 depending on condition.


2. Veritas Model (23 Jewel) – A premium-grade Elgin with high jewel count and quality, valued at $500–$1,000.


3. Father Time 21 Jewel Model – Known for reliability and fine craftsmanship, valued at $300–$900.


4. Elgin Convertible 1870s Model (Keywind/Stemwind Hybrid) – Early innovation piece, valued at $800–$1,500.


5. 1891 Elgin National GM Wheeler Grade 103 Model 3 Pocket Watch – 14 karat yellow gold. Manufactured pre-1900, valued at $10,000+.

Learn More About The Value of Your Elgin Pocket Watch

iGuide’s appraisal service is a good way to discover the value of your Elgin pocket watch. Learn more.