The Best Pocket Watch Conversions: A Journey Through American Watchmaking

When it comes to converting pocket watches into wristwatches, collectors and enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. American watchmaking has a rich history, with several companies producing some of the finest timepieces ever made. But which company makes for the best conversion? The answer isn't straightforward, as each brand has its own unique characteristics that make it special. Let’s explore some of the most iconic American watch companies—Waltham, Hamilton, Elgin, Burlington, Rockford, Ball, and Illinois—and discover what makes their pocket watches ideal for conversion.

Waltham: The Pioneer of American Watchmaking (1850-1957)

Founded in 1850, the Waltham Watch Company is credited with pioneering the mass production of watches in America. Waltham’s innovative use of interchangeable parts revolutionized the industry, allowing for the production of high-quality timepieces at a scale previously unimaginable. The company’s watches were even used in expeditions, including the first successful summit of Mount Everest in 1953. Waltham pocket watches are known for their reliability and precision, making them excellent candidates for conversion. Each converted Waltham watch carries a piece of history, reflecting the ingenuity and craftsmanship that defined American watchmaking.

Waltham pocket watch conversion.

Hamilton: The Watch of Railroad Precision (1892-Present)

Hamilton, established in 1892 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, quickly became synonymous with railroad precision. By the early 1900s, Hamilton was the official supplier of watches to the railroads, a role that required their timepieces to meet stringent accuracy standards. The company's 992 and 992B models are particularly sought after due to their robust construction and historical significance. Hamilton also played a crucial role during World War II, supplying over one million watches to the U.S. military. Converting a Hamilton pocket watch means owning a piece of history that was essential to keeping trains—and later, soldiers—on time.

Hamilton pocket watch conversion.

Elgin: The People's Timekeeper (1864-1968)

Elgin National Watch Company, founded in 1864 in Elgin, Illinois, aimed to bring high-quality timepieces to the masses. Over its century-long history, Elgin produced more watches than any other American manufacturer, making their pocket watches highly accessible for conversion. Elgin watches were so popular that they were even advertised as "The Watch That Made The Dollar Famous." The company was known for its innovation, including developing the B.W. Raymond, one of the most reliable railroad watches ever made. Converting an Elgin pocket watch gives you a beautiful timepiece that represents American innovation and accessibility.

Elgin pocket watch conversion.

Burlington: The Unsung Hero of American Horology (1908-1923)

The Burlington Watch Company, established in 1908, took a unique approach by selling their watches directly to consumers via mail order, bypassing traditional retail channels. This allowed Burlington to offer high-quality watches at competitive prices, making them a favorite among the working class. Despite being less known than other brands, Burlington pocket watches are prized for their robustness and unique designs. Each conversion of a Burlington watch results in a timepiece that feels personal and bespoke, as many original owners had their watches customized. Burlington's relatively short run makes these watches rare and desirable for those seeking something different.

Burlington pocket watch conversion.

Rockford: The Artisan's Choice (1873-1915)

Founded in 1873 in Rockford, Illinois, the Rockford Watch Company produced some of the most finely crafted pocket watches of the era. Though not as prolific as its competitors, Rockford focused on quality over quantity, producing watches that were meticulously crafted and highly accurate. The company’s attention to detail and commitment to excellence is evident in every piece. Rockford watches are relatively rare, making them a unique choice for conversion. Owning a converted Rockford watch means wearing a piece of American craftsmanship that was created with care and precision.

Rockford pocket watch conversion.

Ball: The Standard of Railroad Accuracy (1891-Present)

The Ball Watch Company was founded by Webb C. Ball in 1891 in Cleveland, Ohio, after a tragic train collision highlighted the need for more accurate timekeeping on the railroads. Ball established strict standards for accuracy and reliability, which became the benchmark for railroad watches across the United States. The phrase "Accuracy Under Adverse Conditions" encapsulates the essence of Ball watches, making them ideal for conversion into rugged, dependable wristwatches. A converted Ball watch is not only a stylish accessory but also a tribute to the precision that kept America’s railroads running smoothly.

Ball pocket watch conversion.

Illinois: The Watchmaker's Watch (1870-1928)

Illinois Watch Company, founded in 1870 in Springfield, Illinois, is often celebrated for producing some of the most beautiful and well-crafted watches in America. Known for their innovative designs and high-quality movements, Illinois watches are a favorite among collectors. The company was particularly famous for its Art Deco designs in the 1920s, which are still admired today. Converting an Illinois pocket watch into a wristwatch allows you to wear a piece of horological art, combining aesthetic beauty with mechanical excellence. Each Illinois conversion is a testament to the company’s legacy of innovation and style.

Illinois pocket watch conversion.

Conclusion: The Best Conversion is a Matter of Preference

So, which company makes the best pocket watch conversion? The answer depends on what you value most in a timepiece. Whether it’s Waltham’s pioneering spirit, Hamilton’s railroad precision, Elgin’s accessibility, Burlington’s unique charm, Rockford’s artisan quality, Ball’s rugged reliability, or Illinois’s design innovation, each brand offers something special. In the end, there’s no definitive answer—just personal preference. Whichever brand you choose, converting a pocket watch into a wristwatch is a way to preserve and celebrate a piece of American history that can be enjoyed for generations to come.