Illinois 224 from 1923—One of Only 1,000 Ever Produced
This timepiece is a pocket watch conversion, and the movement can be seen through the caseback. The timepiece features 21 jewels, original golden movement accents, and was produced for only one year in 1923, with just 1,000 units made.
This piece is in our 44 mm conversion case, learn more about case size and profile.
*Every detail—from servicing, restoring, repairing and casing—is completed in our shop in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA*
This timepiece is a pocket watch conversion, and the movement can be seen through the caseback. The timepiece features 21 jewels, original golden movement accents, and was produced for only one year in 1923, with just 1,000 units made.
This piece is in our 44 mm conversion case, learn more about case size and profile.
*Every detail—from servicing, restoring, repairing and casing—is completed in our shop in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA*
This timepiece is a pocket watch conversion, and the movement can be seen through the caseback. The timepiece features 21 jewels, original golden movement accents, and was produced for only one year in 1923, with just 1,000 units made.
This piece is in our 44 mm conversion case, learn more about case size and profile.
*Every detail—from servicing, restoring, repairing and casing—is completed in our shop in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA*
Illinois Watch Co. was in operation from 1869-1948 and produced some of the most renowned railroad-grade movements ever manufactured. Watches were produced in their factory in Springfield, Illinois.
This Illinois timepiece was crafted in Springfield, Illinois, in 1923. It features the ultra-rare Grade 224 movement—a 21-jewel, in-house caliber produced by Illinois for only one year and limited to just 1,000 units. The golden movement components remain unrestored, retaining the original gold-tone accents applied by Illinois at the time of manufacture. The jewel settings, gear train, balance, and balance weights were individually hand-polished to restore their original luster and sheen, creating striking contrast. This is likely the only known example restored to such a level—offering a glimpse as close as possible to how the movement appeared when it left the factory. The hands remain unrestored in their original heat-blued condition. The metal Illinois dial features bold numerals and an intricate striped motif at the center. Over time, the dial has developed a natural patina, adding depth and character to the piece.
The timepiece is encased in a surgical grade 316L stainless steel conversion case, designed with adjustable lugs for easy winding and setting, ensuring a comfortable fit across various wrist sizes. The case includes front, back, and crown gaskets, providing water resistance up to 50 meters, though it is recommended to remove the watch before engaging in water activities. The timepiece comes fully serviced and ready for your future adventures.
Watch Performance
Accuracy: +/- 10 seconds per day
Amplitude: 300 degrees
Beat Error: 1.5 ms
Frequency: 18,000 (5 beats per second)
Power Reserve: 24-30 hours
Complication: Sub second hand
Watch Specifications
Manufacture: Illinois
Location: Springfield, Illinois
Year Manufactured: 1923
Dial Material: Metal (guilloche)
Jewels: 21 jewels
Case Diameter: 44 mm
Front Crystal: Domed AR coated sapphire
Back Crystal: Flat AR coated sapphire
Case Material: 316L stainless
Lug width: 22 mm
Lug to Lug: 47 mm (52 mm with crown)
Height: 13 mm
Original Case Included: No
Serial Number: 4252346
Water Resistance: 50 meters
Warranty: Full 1-Year Warranty
All Frett & Co. Clockworks watches come with a full 1-year warranty unless otherwise stated.