What makes the Chicago 481 unique: Today, we’re delighted to feature this exquisite timepiece initially produced by the Elgin National Watch Company in 1921 — the Chicago 481. The original pocket watch boasts a refined dial with bold black numerals, red minute numerals, and dark blue spade and whip hands. These sophisticated details look exceptionally breathtaking against its pristine light eggshell background. We complemented the original pocket watch and added to its opulent style by encasing it within our robust and scratch-resistant Machined Titanium case. We also equipped the piece with a matching nickel-plated crown.

Our Machined Titanium case features a transparent back, enabling watch enthusiasts to view its 384-grade open-face movement with a ¾ plate featuring 17 screw-set ruby and sapphire jewels. The antique movement also includes additional stunning details, including a going barrel, quick train, Moseley regulator, Breguet hairspring, and gold-plated gears. To top it off, we matched it with our comfortable Natural leather watch strap, enabling the owner to wear this one-of-kind piece of history. 

The Elgin National Watch Company originally manufactured the pocket watch in Elgin, Illinois, in 1921 — the same year American race car driver Tommy Milton won his first Indy 500. What was especially remarkable about his victory was that Ralph DePalma led the race for 109 laps, establishing a world record that remained until 1988, and he was leading by two laps at the race’s halfway point. Tragically, One of DePalma’s connecting rods broke during his historic run, forcing him to drop out of the race. Tommy Milton won the race along with riding mechanic Harry Franck. Milton was famous for having only one functional eye, which would have disqualified him from the race today. He went on to win the Indy 500 a second time two years later.