E l g i n K i t c h e n e r
c. 1 9 1 9
Scarce Elgin “Kitchener” men’s Military design wristwatch in sterling silver, circa 1919.
Like most other American watch manufacturers, Elgin was keen to realize the marketing potential of a military-style wristwatch immediately after World War I, and introduced several models named for famous military men. This example model was named for Field Marshal Lord Horatio Herbert Kitchener. Kitchener was War Secretary and his image famously appeared on recruiting posters with the slogan “Your country needs you.” Kitchener died during the war when his ship struck a German mine and sank on June 5, 1916. The “Kitchener” is fairly scarce and this is the first example I have offered in several years. It is a large, substantial watch with a heavy precious metal case, and was priced at $39.00 in 1919. This example is in excellent condition with the large Fahys sterling silver case showing only light wear. Caseback is excellent and unengraved. Case measures 38mm long and 31mm wide. Original 48-star black porcelain dial is superb, with no chips or cracks. Has new glass crystal. Crown is white gold fill. The watch is powered by its correct 15 jewel Elgin grade 464 movement.
(SOLD)
