Under the Dial – Elgin National Watch Company – Grade 155 – 16-Size, 17 Jewels, c.1897

Yesterday, we took a look at the Elgin Grade 155, part of the company’s revitalized product lineup introduced in 1896. Today, we take a peek under the dial of the Grade 155, showcasing the pendant-setting mechanism and wheels that dictate the movement of the hands. Notice the matching serial number stamped near the perimeter of the plate. Most American watch companies stamped critical parts with matching numbers to maintain quality during the manufacturing and assembly process. For modern collectors, this practice now provides an easy way to determine the originality of certain parts within the watch.⠀