I have spent the last couple of weeks or so searching IHC185 and other sites and would like a solution for my dilemma. I recently acquired a 12s Elgin Grade 194 model 3 class 71 mvmt S/N 7425356 with dial in good running condition. In my quest for a case I came across a 192 grade 3 class 73 17j S/N 7423068 complete watch with a very nice dial and case. The dial that is on the 17j mvmt appears to be DS and I have yet to find any info on DS dials on 194's or any other 12s Elgin mvmt's. Is this thing a fake as I have yet to remove it from the watch. I am the absolute worst at poising hands correctly. If it is for real I will have my watchmaker make the swap. All info and advice is appreciated. Photos to follow. I also have grade 189 but it has a fancy dial on it so it is of no help to me.

194 Dial

192 17j Dial

I have one Grade 190 and four Grade 194s (the hunting version of Grade 190). Here are the dials, starting with Grade 190. Since the dial and hands match those on your Grade 190, they probably are original.

Grade 194 #1

Grade 194 #2

Grade 194 #3

Grade 194 #4

Ethan now I'm even more confused This sez the 190 is hunting and the 194 is OF

12s Elgin mvments

My 189 which is a hunter has a fancy dial like you show. I'm still at odds with this DS dial on my 192 what mvmt's was it used on.

189 mvmt

Pardon me, you are right. Grade 190 is the hunting version of Grade 194.

The dial on my Grade 189 is very similar to the dial on your Grade 189 except that your dial has circles around the numbers.

At times you see a pseudo DS dial but most I have ever seen are SS type dials, yours is correct and no need to change it.