1934 Elgin Art Deco Rectangular Wristwatch 7 Jewels Grade 488 Cream Dial Watch

Watch Overview

Discover the Elgin Art Deco Tank wristwatch, dating from 1937 — a distinctive men’s watch that reflects the bold elegance of the Art Deco era.

It is powered by the original manual-wind Elgin Watch Co. mechanical movement caliber grade 488, model 1 and featuring 7 jewels. Made in U.S.A.

This watch features a cream dial with gilt Arabic numerals, ornate gold-tone hands, and a subtle minute track along the perimeter. The dial proudly carries the Elgin name and star emblem.

Housed in a 23x32.5mm curved-tank nickel case with stepped sides, this Elgin captures the geometry and symmetry characteristic of its time. It is coming on a brand-new black leather two-piece strap.

Presented in good vintage condition, it is fully inspected by our in-house watchmaker and offered as a collector’s piece and is ready to wear and enjoy.

Product Details

General Specifications

• Brand: Elgin
• Type: Wristwatch
• Year / Era: 1937 - Vintage
• Gender: Men's
• Country of Manufacture: United States

Dial & Display

• Display: Analog
• Color: Cream
• Features: Hour markers, minute track

Movement

• Type: Manual-winding
• Caliber: Grade 488
• Jewels: 7
• Movement Functions:
  • Central hour and minute hands
  • Model 1
  • Serial SN 36925473

Case & Band

• Material: Nickel
• Case Shape: Rectangular
• Bezel: Fixed. Stepped
• Crystal: Acrylic
• Back: Snap-on
• Crown: Push-pull
• Band Type: Black leather two-piece strap
• Case Back Markings: Cased and timed by Elgin National Watch Co. Illinois Watch Case Elgin Nickel 0501878

Case Measurements (mm)

• Case Size: 23x32.5
• Case Diameter w/Crown: 26
• Case Lug to Lug: 39.8
• Case Thickness: 8.7
• Lug Width: 19
• Band Width: 19

Additional Info

• Box & Papers: NO
• Condition: The watch is in good condition, some signs of wear consistent with use and aged, a solid case, bezel and dial.
• Extras: This timepiece has been fully inspected and authenticated by our in-house watchmaker, confirming that it runs accurately.

History & Legacy of Elgin

Founded in 1864 in Elgin, Illinois, the Elgin National Watch Company quickly became one of America’s most important watch manufacturers, producing tens of millions of timepieces over its near century of operation. Known for quality and reliability at accessible prices, Elgin was a pioneer in bringing precise timekeeping to the American public. By the 1920s–40s, Elgin’s wristwatches showcased the bold geometry and elegance of the Art Deco era, combining American engineering with fashionable design.

This particular piece — an Elgin Art Deco Tank with a custom Aztec/Mayan revival bracelet — embodies both the innovation of American watchmaking and the artistic influence of Latin American craftsmanship. Such bracelets, often handmade by Mexican silversmiths in the mid-20th century, were treasured souvenirs and symbols of cultural pride. The pairing of an American Elgin movement with a hand-engraved artisan bracelet makes this timepiece especially collectible, appealing to both horology enthusiasts and admirers of vintage jewelry design. A rare fusion of two traditions, it remains a wearable artifact of history.

About Second Hand Horology

At SECOND HAND HOROLOGY, we offer a curated selection of watches ranging from vintage to modern, including both brand-new and pre-owned timepieces. We’re committed to quality, accuracy, and integrity. Our listings feature:

Professional, unedited photography and clear, transparent descriptions. Every watch is thoroughly inspected and securely packaged to ensure a confident, seamless buying experience.

We also warmly invite you to visit our physical shop and explore the collection in person.

Contact Us

We appreciate you checking out our listing! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions, offers, or just to talk watches — we love what we do and enjoy connecting with fellow enthusiasts.

Thank you for your business—we truly appreciate your support and look forward to serving you again in the future!

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