Hi everyone,
I just this evening bought an Elgin Grade 572 on e-bay, and was wondering if there is any further information on this grade of watch. The Elgin database does not say much on the watch.
This is a 19j, adj 6 pos. with an Invar balance, stem wind lever set, I believe ca. 1952.
Would this qualify for a rr grade, the elgin data states that they have only 2 or 3 pos adj, what actually is the Invar balance, is this on the same lines as the Hamilton elinvars. Is there any difference in quality as a result of the pressed jewels rather than the screwed jewel settings ? Any general information would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Bill

I have three Invar Balance Elgins, but they precede the 570 series. When you get it post some pictures.

I don't believe in the time frame of your watch, 1952, that it would have been accepted by any railroads, as by that time they stated standard watches had to be 16s, 21j and adjusted no less than 5 positions.

At that time Elgin's model 571 filled those requirements.

Regards! Mark

Elgin Grade 572

In Larry Treiman's Bulletin article "Timing the Trolleys" February 1978 He Talks about Elgin Watches used for Electric Railway, Streetcar, and Interurban Railway service. I quote him;

"Like other manufacturers, Elgin continued to offer similar grades through the 1930s and even later. Because by that time electric railways were being rapidly replaced by buses the watches were generally classified as transportation watches. After World War II Elgin offered a complete new family of of 16 size pocket watches, headed by the grade 571, a 21 jewel BW Raymond railroad watch. The second watch in the new line was a grade 572, a 19 jewel model with five adjustments, three of them probably positions. The 572 was lever set, and although it was not a railroad-approved grade, it was no doubt popular as a transportation watch. It may have been used on some railroads with less stringent watch standards."


Larry Buchan

Thanks, Dave, Mark and Larry,
The information is always helpful. I have a list somewhere that was showing watches that were rr grade, but not necessarily rr approved. I also was wondering about the 6 adjustments, thinking that would be the temp,iso, and 4 positions, which as you say would not qualify for any of the major rr use.
None the less quite a nice looking watch.
Thanks all,
Bill
and Dave I will post pics when I get it.

David,
here are some pics of my 572. 19j 6adj elgin.

another dial

movement

movement 2

and finally the case

Was there a big differential on the original sales price? Your 572 looks as good as a 571.