Men’s 1917 Elgin Trench Watch w/Shrapnel Guard

Prior to World War I, men's wristwatches, or "wristlets," were uncommon, far outshone by the revered pocket watch, the quintessential timekeeper for men across all walks of life. While women embraced the novelty of watches worn not on the lapel or affixed to a chain but on the wrist; men were reluctant as such a practice was considered “effeminate.” Ironically, in the very early 20th century, men’s versions were crafted by trailblazing brands like Waltham and Rolex for niche audiences such as military officers or adventurers. During this time timepieces, whether pocket or the rare wristlet were ubiquitous, essential and an indication of societal norms: Pocket watches signified prestige and dependability — and technical limitations, as early wristwatches demanded exceptional resilience and precision without modern shockproof designs. 

The wristwatch’s marked ascent began with WWI, when its practicality for soldiers needing swift, hands-free timekeeping in the trenches transformed it from a curiosity to a necessity.

The Elgin National Watch Company was among the first American watch houses to supply  high-quality "wristlet" or "trench watches" beginning just prior to WWI. It operated the world’s largest watchmaking facility, sprawling across city blocks in Elgin, Illinois, complete with its own jeweling house, watchmaking school, and observatory. This visionary company invested lavishly in top-tier artisans and case designers and engineers to craft timepieces that stood out for their elegance and innovation, setting a standard above the competition.

Early Elgin wristlets, emerging in the pre-WWI era when men's wristwatches were still a rarity, showcased pioneering designs with intricate movements and distinctive cases, marking them as treasures of both style and craftsmanship during their day. Now, Elgins are worn by discerning collectors, studied by historians and cherished by costume designers who wish to get a certain look "just right."

We at Strickland Vintage Watches rarely offer a WWI era timepiece with separate shrapnel guard. However, we could not resist adding this example to our gallery. Each element of this offering – Elgin WWI era watch and original shrapnel guard – is worthy by itself.

While we in the horological community cannot be absolutely certain whether shrapnel guards were worn to protect the wearer or the timepiece from bumps and shocks, we do know they were cherished and rather uncommon during the first World War.

We're pleased to offer this fine, original example of an early Elgin WWI era "wristlet" or "Trench Watch," fitted with an original WWI-era shrapnel guard. The approx. 34mm by 40mm piece  is so striking that it does a fine job of speaking for itself; so let us stand back so that you can admire this work, with its cleaned, oiled and calibrated movement and custom-fitted with a two-piece mahogany cordovan strap.

Also, we are equally pleased to offer this historic tactile art in its own custom-fitted khaki twill presentation pouch.