Elgin Watch help

[Zep11in]

I had an awsome find over the weekend...well it would be even more awsesome if I found the whole thing, but the back of an Elgin pocket watch. I looked up the serial number and came up with...
Serial Number SN Range Quanty Name Year grade size code jewels Adj/reg/etc.
-------------- -------- ------ ---- ---- ----- ---- ------ ------ ------------
165996 165001 5000 GMW 1872 57* 18s hfg1ks 11-13j
*** dial should be marked "National Watch Co" not "Elgin Nat'l Watch Co". ***

the numbers scratched below the serial are the ones in question. the engraving above the makers mark is probably the QC's initials and number. Thanks everyone and happy hunting!!!!

 

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[Machkin]

maybe 14 = day, 2 = February, and 97 is the year? May signify when someone received the watch.

 

[masterjedi]

Look at this info.... Nice find! It was made in 1871... Click on link below...


Elgin Watches Serial Numbers | Elgin National Watch Company Serial Number, Elgin pocket watch

 

[boogeyman]

Could also be when it was worked on or serviced. Used to be common practice.

 

[Reanm8er]

Probably a valentine gift but 47 not 97?

Best wishes!

 

[jude061]

I think boogeyman is correct. The initials of the servicing watch maker and date of service were often scratched into the case.

 

[Zep11in]

Thanks everyone! very interesting find, I'm definitely going back to the permission to see if i can find any other piece to this work of art.

 

[Reanm8er]

That's correct jude and an absolute necessity to maintain a ICC approval.

 

[A2coins]

I hope you find the rest that would be cool