{"product_id":"the-springfield-188-45mm","title":"The Springfield 188 (45mm)","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Makes The Springfield 188 Unique:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Springfield 188 is a remarkable example of Illinois Watch Company's pursuit of both technical excellence and artistic craftsmanship during the early 1920s. Built around a 19-jewel Illinois movement manufactured in 1923, this watch comes from the final years before the company was acquired by Hamilton, when Illinois was producing some of its finest movements. While the movement itself is exceptional, it is the dial's dramatic engine-turned finish and the movement's unusual \"Meritime\" designation that make this piece especially captivating to collectors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe first detail that draws the eye is the spectacular gilt dial, whose radiant basket-weave engine turning fans outward from the center in a mesmerizing geometric pattern. As light moves across its surface, the intricate machining creates a remarkable sense of depth and motion rarely seen on surviving dials of this era. Bold black Art Deco Arabic numerals provide sharp contrast against the warm gold finish, while elegant diamond hands, finished in heat-blued steel, reinforce the watch's refined period styling. At six o'clock, the recessed sub-seconds register features a circular brushed finish that subtly distinguishes it from the surrounding guilloché, adding yet another layer of visual complexity. Honest speckled patina across the dial reminds the wearer that this remarkable piece has been quietly marking time for more than a century.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurning the watch over reveals one of the most visually striking Illinois movements you'll encounter. The 19-jewel movement features beautifully executed damaskeening that flows across the bridges in sweeping wave-like patterns, complemented by polished steel winding wheels, gold jewel settings, and an exposed balance wheel beneath the sapphire exhibition caseback. Most intriguing is the engraved \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Meritime\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e designation spanning the barrel bridge. Unlike Illinois' famous railroad grades such as the Bunn Special or Sangamo Special, the Meritime appears to have been a specialty trade designation used on a relatively small number of high-grade Illinois movements produced during the early 1920s. Surviving examples are notably scarce, making the Meritime inscription a fascinating point of interest for collectors who appreciate uncommon Illinois variants and factory designations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe movement is housed inside Vortic's 45mm Springfield case, machined from solid tumbled bronze. The bronze case and matching machined bronze crown beautifully complement the dial's rich golden tones while allowing the deep blue diamond hands to remain a striking focal point. Over time, the bronze case will develop a deeper natural patina, ensuring that the Springfield 188 continues to evolve alongside its owner. Completing the watch is an American-made 22mm oxblood cordovan leather strap that enhances its warm vintage character.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith its brilliantly executed engine-turned dial, uncommon Meritime-marked 19-jewel movement, richly finished bronze case, and unmistakable Art Deco styling, the Springfield 188 is a watch that rewards close inspection. It represents not only the technical skill of Illinois Watch Company at the height of its craftsmanship, but also the individuality that makes American pocket watch conversions so endlessly fascinating to collectors.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Vortic Watch Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52349589586221,"sku":null,"price":5300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1710\/0345\/files\/1_a7ec2f7f-fd81-45c8-a31c-7759a35e88f9.png?v=1788798880","url":"https:\/\/vorticwatches.mom\/products\/the-springfield-188-45mm","provider":"Vortic","version":"1.0","type":"link"}