Collectible! Lord Elgin M-056 World Time 21J Gold-Filled Automatic (OH)

Make: Elgin USA
Type: Automatic
Model: M-056
Year of Production: 1990s
Movement: M-OK09
BPH: 21,600
Number of Jewels: 21
Hand and Dial: Gold-Filled Roman Numerals with La Fleur Hands
Width: 36.6mm
Lug to Lug Height: 45mm
Thickness: 11.7mm
Lug Width: 18/16mm
Bracelet / Strap: Brand New Hi-Quality Calf Black Leather Strap with Silver Buckle
Additional Information: Gold Filled Bezel and Crowns

Elgin National Watch Company, often referred to simply as Elgin, was one of the most prominent American watch manufacturers in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Elgin was founded in 1864 in Elgin, Illinois, USA. The company's founders included Benjamin W. Raymond, George M. Wheeler, Thomas S. Dickerson, and others.

Elgin was part of the American watchmaking industry's golden age, during which several high-quality watch manufacturers were established in the United States of America.

Elgin watches were known for their precision and innovation. They produced both pocket and wrist watches, with a strong focus on accuracy and craftsmanship.

At its peak, Elgin was one of the largest watch manufacturers in the world, producing millions of timepieces. They were known for their efficient production methods, which allowed them to offer a wide range of watch models at various price points.

Elgin was famous for its "Father Time" series of railroad watches. These watches were highly accurate and designed to meet the strict standards of the railroad industry that required precise timekeeping for safety reasons.

Like many American watch companies, Elgin faced challenges in the mid-20th century due to competition from Swiss watchmakers and the rise of quartz technology. In 1968, Elgin ceased watch production and shifted its focus to other business ventures. The Elgin brand was subsequently purchased the same year and now owned by MZ Berger Inc.

Elgin watches are highly collectible today, and vintage models are sought after by watch enthusiasts and collectors. The quality and historical significance of Elgin timepieces contribute to their appeal.

Here we have a top of the range Lord Elgin Worldtime Automatic Watch.

This beautifully preserved watch was carefully stripped, meticulously cleaned, oiled, re-assembled and calibrated on 10 October 2025. It should be able to operate unhindered until the next servicing thereby providing the Buyer peace of mind.

The timeless cylindrical shaped case was buffed as best as possible; however, there are some hairline scratches present. The glass is original and was given a good rub-down and is now near mint condition.

The crowns are located at their traditional 3H and 4H positions and tucked away nicely to prevent damage or snags. The 3H press-in crown is for worldtime quickset whilst the date and time adjustment is via the traditional method of turning the uncorked 4H crown accordingly.

Equipped with the well revered M-OK-09, it has 21 Jewels that operate at 21,600 BPH. The time-grapher shows excellent readings of +1 second and amplitude of 230! Such readings are exceptional even by modern brand new automatic watch standards whereby the accepted tolerance is (approximately) -20- to +40 seconds a day! This is a testament to the quality, excellent power reserve and longevity for such a vintage timepiece, the meticulous care provided over the years, and of course the basic calibration conducted.

To the best of our knowledge and expertise when overhauling the timepiece, the watch is 100% original Elgin components from this particular watch. No parts were replaced with aftermarket parts or modified thereby it is considered in near MINT condition.

The case width and height are approximately 36.6mm (w/o crown) and 45mm respectively. The lug width is 18mm and the bracelet can accommodate wrists up to 21cm; hence, this watch is suitable for men and the modern women.

The watch comes with a brand new hi-quality calf black leather strap with silver buckle.

Due to its age, this timepiece has not been water-resistant tested.

The pictures provided shows the watch in pristine condition (no dents, dings and major scratches), and the movement within squeaky clean and well maintained. It has also been demagnetised to improve parts reliability, minimise wear & tear, and improve accuracy. The only drawback is the lack of documentation and original box. An aftermarket box or purposeful carrying case will be provided instead.

Seldom can one find a vintage watch that offers this and more. Yes, there are many other same / similar models in the market, BUT none are as well-kept and maintained as what you see here, and with an attractive price to boot. So, it is a no-brainer that this one-of-a-kind watch will make an extremely beautiful birthday present for that special someone! Another no-brainer is the fact that the value of this watch will appreciate over time.

Bear in mind that this watch has seen many of the previous owners’ ups and downs in life, and should be cherished and well taken care of for the next generation to savour such engineering beauty.

Do also bear in mind that it will cost between S$ 180.00 to S$ 200.00 for an overhaul, an estimated S$ 80.00 to calibrate (depending on watch condition), and S$ 80.00 to clean and buff - these costs do not apply when purchasing this timepiece. So, if anyone was to sell such a timepiece at a low price yet claim that it has been serviced, one has to ask what kind of servicing was conducted, if any.

This is a truly magnificent Lord Elgin World Time in near mint condition with a beautifully preserved dial, immaculate indices, hands, movement and case; so, be unique and use something that is almost impossible to source.

This is a must-have for the Elgin die-hard fan, or any vintage watch fan for that matter!