Cross-Brand Franken

Submitted by Elgin Doug on November 20, 2011 - 2:20pm

Hi folks!  I haven't been around much.  I stopped my Bulova collection at 4 - my Rose Gold Senator, the 1958 His Excellency, and a pair of 1937 American Clippers (I'm a sucker for stepped-side cases) - and have been concentrating on Elgins.  So many watches, so little time (and money!)

This morning on my usual check of the new Elgin listings on Ebay, something appeared that made me scratch my balding head for a while.  No link, but the listing is number 230704738052

It looks like a 1940s Senator, but it has an Elgin 18/0 movement from 1929.  The caseback is even milled out to the proper shape to hold the rectangular movement.  At first, i wondered whether Elgin had scooped Bulova by 11 years, but close inspection revealed that the dial is not a really good match to the opening in the bezel, and then there's the fact that AFAIK, Elgin didn't start selling RGP cases until the 1950s.

So, I conclude it's likely an old Cross-Brand Franken - Bulogin?  Elgova?

simpletreasures
Posted November 20, 2011 - 2:26pm

I was wondering what the Hell happened to you!

Bored watchmaker!!!

Wayne Hanley
Posted November 20, 2011 - 2:31pm

Welcome back Doug! I am selling my vintage elgin collection if you are interested give me a PM. Pic available on request!

Bob Bruno
Posted November 20, 2011 - 2:43pm

Yeah welcome back Doug you've been missed!

Elgin Doug
Posted November 20, 2011 - 2:59pm

Aw, gee, shucks!  I just figured you all had minimal interest in my Elgins! 

I see the long-running Senator/Spencer controversy appears to have been amicably resolved.

Daca102090
Posted November 20, 2011 - 3:21pm

Yeah, it would be intersting to see how the other end of the case back is marked.

OldTicker
Posted November 20, 2011 - 6:44pm

I have an aftermarket case somewhere that looks a lot like a Senator, its a bit smaller, but it has the same type of lugs.

If I can find it, I will post a picture next to a Bulova case.

General Information - [ Archived ]