This striking 1960s Elgin automatic is a perfect snapshot of the bold, forward-thinking design language that defined the decade. Housed in an aggressive square, sharply angular case, it has a dramatic wrist presence that feels far more modern than its age would suggest, architectural, confident, and unmistakably 1960s.
The blue dial is a standout, featuring applied indices and a clean date window that balance the watch’s sculptural case with elegant, readable design. Over time, the dial has developed a unique vintage patina that adds warmth, depth, and individuality — giving this piece the kind of character collectors actively seek.
Inside beats a 17-jewel self-winding Swiss movement, stamped by Dufonte Co. L.A. and marked 905 / 7F under the balance, identifying it as the FHF 905 caliber, produced by Fabrique d’Horlogerie de Fontainemelon (FHF). FHF was one of Switzerland’s most important movement manufacturers, supplying reliable automatic calibers to many respected brands during the mid-20th century. The 905 is known for its durability, ease of service, and smooth automatic winding.
Elgin, founded in Illinois in 1864, evolved from one of America’s great pocket watch makers into a major force in mid-century wristwatch design, often pairing bold American styling with high-quality Swiss movements, exactly what we see here.
This watch runs well by vintage standards and offers a perfect mix of space-age design, Swiss mechanical reliability, and honest vintage character, a standout Elgin that wears confidently, uniquely, and unapologetically bold.
This striking 1960s Elgin automatic is a perfect snapshot of the bold, forward-thinking design language that defined the decade. Housed in an aggressive square, sharply angular case, it has a dramatic wrist presence that feels far more modern than its age would suggest, architectural, confident, and unmistakably 1960s.
The blue dial is a standout, featuring applied indices and a clean date window that balance the watch’s sculptural case with elegant, readable design. Over time, the dial has developed a unique vintage patina that adds warmth, depth, and individuality — giving this piece the kind of character collectors actively seek.
Inside beats a 17-jewel self-winding Swiss movement, stamped by Dufonte Co. L.A. and marked 905 / 7F under the balance, identifying it as the FHF 905 caliber, produced by Fabrique d’Horlogerie de Fontainemelon (FHF). FHF was one of Switzerland’s most important movement manufacturers, supplying reliable automatic calibers to many respected brands during the mid-20th century. The 905 is known for its durability, ease of service, and smooth automatic winding.
Elgin, founded in Illinois in 1864, evolved from one of America’s great pocket watch makers into a major force in mid-century wristwatch design, often pairing bold American styling with high-quality Swiss movements, exactly what we see here.
This watch runs well by vintage standards and offers a perfect mix of space-age design, Swiss mechanical reliability, and honest vintage character, a standout Elgin that wears confidently, uniquely, and unapologetically bold.
