What makes the Springfield 550 unique: We’re pleased to present this sophisticated and distinct watch that was initially released by the Illinois Watch Company nearly a century ago — the Springfield 550. This breathtaking watch features a pristine, white dial along with uniquely-stylized black hour numerals and red minute numerals. We typically expect to see these Gothic-style numerals and look reserved for Sangamo Railroad watches, this dial appears to be a nod to the larger version of this watch. The watch’s face also features blued-steel diamond kite watch hands and a helpful subdial. We matched this antique pocket watch with our Sandblasted Titanium case and a nickel-plated crown to complement the dial’s polished style. On the back of the watch, you can see its original 406-grade open-face movement with a center bridge plate, going barrel, pendant setting, and nickel finish. This exquisite piece also boasts 19 jewels and beautiful gold-plated gears. Finally, we equipped this one-of-a-kind watch with our artisan-designed Stone leather watch strap, making it even more remarkable.

The Illinois Watch Company initially produced the Springfield 550’s pocket watch in Springfield, Illinois, in 1923 — the same year that Dr. K. Winfield Ney performed what’s believed to be the first brain tumor operation with a local anesthetic. Ney and his surgical team removed a four inch by two inch benign tumor from Henry A. Brown. The tumor was ¾ inch thick. Ney used cocaine as the anesthetic, and Brown was conscious through the entire procedure. Brown likely wouldn’t have survived the operation if he had been under a general anesthetic, and, fortunately, he was able to recover after his surgery fully.