Elgin Sportsman 17-Jewel Watch Value Guide

The Elgin Sportsman 17-Jewel watch represents a pivotal era for the Elgin National Watch Company, once the world's largest timepiece manufacturer. This mid-century model was designed as a durable, stylish everyday watch for the post-war American market, blending mechanical reliability with an accessible price point.

What Is Elgin Sportsman 17-Jewel Watch Worth?

The typical price range for Elgin Sportsman 17-Jewel Watch is $100 - $120 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the gold plating, specifically looking for 'brassing' or wear-through on the lugs.
• The operational status of the 17-jewel movement and its ability to keep accurate time over 24 hours.
• The clarity of the acrylic crystal and the presence of the original expandable metal band.
• Market demand for mid-century American-made mechanical watches, typically ranging from $100 to $120.

How to Identify Elgin Sportsman 17-Jewel Watch?

• Look for the 'Sportsman' branding printed clearly on the dial below the Elgin logo.
• Verify the 17-jewel mechanical movement by opening the stainless steel case back to view the engravings.
• Check for the gold-plated base metal finish and the original acrylic crystal which should have a slight dome.
• Confirm the era by matching the serial number on the movement to Elgin production records between 1950 and 1960.

History of Elgin Sportsman 17-Jewel Watch

Elgin National Watch Company was a major American watch manufacturer from 1864 to 1968. Known for producing millions of watches, Elgin was at one point the largest watch manufacturer in the world. The 'Sportsman' line was introduced in the mid-20th century, offering durable and stylish watches for everyday wear. These timepieces were celebrated for their reliability and accessible price points, making them a popular choice for many Americans during the post-war era.