Men’s 1929 Illinois Two-Tone & Enamel 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 desirable men's two-tone yellow and white gold-filled dress wristwatch with fancy black-enameled bezel has everything going for it: a great maker, superb condition, and sensuous Deco styling.

Not only is this handsome model "a reliable companion to the man in business who thoroughly realizes the value of his time,” it features a rare, high-grade 21 ruby-jeweled mechanical movement.

In addition to a surprising crisp case, this example retains its original two-tone platinum-and-silver dial and “stained glass” hands with matching sub-seconds register. Measuring 38mm long by 28mm wide, the watch has a fine wrist stance that reflects very well on its wearer.

We've taken the liberty of completely cleaning, oiling and calibrating its original 21 ruby jewel movement so that it keeps time as it was intended. Also, we've fitted the piece with a vintage N.O.S. chocolate alligator strap and matching buckle that looks simply splendid on this work of wrist art! Also, we’re pleased to offer the piece in a custom-fitted, period presentation case.

All elements of this astonishing work of tactile art make it the timepiece one wears to create insurmountable envy among partners, co-workers and all those who have the good fortune of admiring it on the wrist.

We love our overseas buyers, but if the watch is purchased outside the U.S., we must replace the strap with a leather one.