What makes the Chicago 490 unique: We have a unique piece of history to share with you today that was originally built in Elgin, Illinois, by the Elgin National Watch Company in 1921— the Chicago 490. This stunning timepiece features a richly patinated face accompanied by an intricate paisley design and black numerals. There is also an eye-catching patina featured on both the central hands and subdial that draws out this piece's beauty. The original movement has been encased in our gilded titanium case and equipped with a copper crown to match the watch’s antiqued look. For this case color, we place our machined titanium in a kiln for a specific amount of time and temperature, and the result is this incredible gold-colored finish that catches your eye in all different angles. As you turn the watch over, you can view the magnificent ¾ plate movement through our unique clear-backed case. The machined-nickel plate is accompanied by both matching nickel and gold-plated gears. This watch’s striking movement also features 17 stunning screw-set rubies and sapphires along with a going barrel, Mosely regulator, and Breguet hairspring. We have paired this gorgeous watch with our moss watch strap to further highlight the rich textures of this piece.

The same year this watch was produced, in 1921, Hot Springs National Park was officially recognized as a national park in Arkansas. The park features ancient geothermal springs, gorgeous mountain views, and historic bathhouses built in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The current bathhouses are no longer in use and were placed on the National Register of Historic Places over 50 years after the area was declared a national park in 1974.