The Illinois Pocket Watch Company
Look up your Illinois serial number here.
In 1869 a number of public-spirited citizens and capitalists of Springfield, Illinois were shown the advantages of establishing a watch-manufacturing industry in their city. John C. Adams formed the Springfield Watch Company in 1869 with a capital stock of $100,000.
From Springfield to Illinois Watch Company
After struggling through the panic of 1873 and multiple reorganisations, the company was renamed the Illinois Watch Company in 1878 under Jacob Bunn as President. From this stable base the company grew steadily, introducing new sizes and grades throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
By 1903 the company discontinued making cheap movements entirely, concentrating on high-grade 17, 19, 21 and 23-jewel movements. Of 11 watches accepted in a competitive examination at the National Naval Observatory in Washington DC, 10 were Illinois movements — extraordinary testimony to their quality.
Famous Illinois Grades
- Bunn Special — The top Illinois railroad grade, 21–26 jewels
- Sangamo Special — Ultra-high-grade, extremely rare
- A. Lincoln — High-grade 21-jewel movement
- B.W. Raymond — Classic railroad grade
- Stuart — Early model, very collectible
Acquisition by Hamilton
The Illinois Watch Company was purchased by the Hamilton Watch Company in 1927. Production continued for a few years under the Illinois name before being fully integrated. The Illinois factory in Springfield was closed.