Expert: William J Perkins - 6/29/2010

Question
QUESTION: I have a pocket watch that has a C.W.C Co case serial (2435423) and inside the movement says Elgin National Watch Co serial number 1594589. Is this a real Elgin or some off-brand?

Thanks
Gary

ANSWER: Your Elgin watch with serial no. 1594589 is a model 50, made in 1883, 15 jewels, size 16, nickle plates, leverset.  Total production was 36000 watches in 34 runs.  Regards WJP

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QUESTION: Thanks for the great info. The only other question is how to set the time? Is there a way to do this without opening the case?

Answer
Your watch is lever set.  To set you must unscrew the front bezel.  After you remove the bezel the lever is plainly in view.  Pull the lever upwards and set the watch in the normal manner.  When set push the lever back down into its little hiding place, then screw the bezel back into place.  The lever set provision prohibits accidental setting and was mandatory for railroad watches.  Regards WJP