Welcome to the site of the former Elgin National Watch Company, a cornerstone of American watchmaking history. Founded in 1864 by a group of watchmakers and businessmen, the company began as the National Watch Company before adopting the Elgin name in 1874. This site, located in Elgin, Illinois, was once home to the world’s largest watchmaking complex. The Elgin National Watch Company played a significant role in transforming the city into an industrial powerhouse. The factory was completed in 1866, and its first watch movement, the B.W. Raymond, was produced in 1867, a nod to founder Benjamin W. Raymond.
During its heyday, the Elgin Watch Company was a leader in precision timekeeping. In 1910, the company built an observatory to ensure the accuracy of their watches, exemplifying their commitment to quality and innovation. This observatory was not only crucial for the company’s operations but also symbolized the intersection of science and industry during that era.
The company thrived through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, adapting to the changing times. During World War II, Elgin halted civilian watch production to focus on manufacturing military-grade timepieces and instruments, showcasing its versatility and patriotism.
Over nearly a century, the Elgin National Watch Company produced millions of watches, becoming a household name with models like the Lord Elgin and Lady Elgin. Notable individuals, including NBA Hall of Famer Elgin Baylor, were named after the brand, highlighting its cultural impact.
However, by the 1960s, competition and economic shifts led to the decline of traditional watchmaking in the United States. The original Elgin factory ceased operations in 1964 and was demolished two years later. Yet, the legacy of the Elgin National Watch Company endures, remembered for its craftsmanship and as a vital chapter in the story of American manufacturing.
