Men’s 1928 Illinois Art Deco Dress Watch

The Illinois Watch Company is, without question, one of the jewels in the crown of American Watch Houses. Organized in Springfield, Ill. shortly after the Civil War, the company turned out during its 58-year run some of the most magnificent timepieces ever to come to light in this country. Pocket watches with names such as "Bunn Special," "Sangamo Special" and "Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire" and wristwatches such as the "Piccadilly," "Marquis" and "Speedway" — all went from innovation, to wide reception to legend. Illinois was farsighted enough to be one of the first American manufacturers to chase the silly idea of marketing a wristlet for men. Having made "convertible wristlets" for women, which could be used as a pendant, hung from a pin or worn with a cord or chain around the wrist, Illinois saw the rabid reception that wristlets received during WWI and felt the time had come for expanded wristwatch manufacture.

Illinois Watch Company, known for their obsessive attention to detail, produced watches that were exciting, elegant, and extraordinarily well-crafted. Today these watches are prized by collectors and designers for their look and reliability.

With a look that exemplifies the Deco movement, this exceedingly rare and desirable men's wrist treasure has everything going for it: a great maker, superb condition, and extreme Deco styling. Considered one of the most attractive wristwatches of the period, this stunning example has a substantial white gold-filled case with rococo black enamel chase-work. Measuring 36mm by 30mm - not including crown - it is a triumph of American design and tactile art.

Its meticulously restored, exceedingly handsome jet-black dial features stylized numerals, daring sub-seconds configuration and original restored hands.

We've taken the liberty of completely cleaning, oiling and calibrating the original 17 ruby jewel movement so that it keeps time as it was intended. Also, we've fitted the piece with a custom-made black cordovan strap and offer it in a period blue velvet presentation box.

It is the timepiece one wears to create insurmountable envy among partners, co-workers and business associates.