{"product_id":"the-chicago-115-45mm","title":"The Chicago 115 (45mm)","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Makes The Chicago 115 Unique:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Chicago 115 is defined by contrast and ornamentation, centered around a dial that blends structured design with unexpectedly rich detail. The outer dial features a vertically brushed silver surface, its linear texture subtly catching light while showing natural patina throughout. Fine spotting and age marks give the dial an authentic, time-earned character, while bold black Arabic numerals maintain strong legibility against the textured background.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhat sets this piece apart is the gold-plated center section, which introduces a dramatic shift in both color and texture. This inner portion features intricate engraving, adding a level of detail not commonly found in more utilitarian dials of the era. The contrast between the brushed outer ring and the ornate center creates a layered composition that draws the eye inward without overwhelming the overall layout. At 6 o’clock, a recessed sub-seconds register continues the gold-toned theme, with a circular brushed finish that ties the design together while adding depth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe handset complements the dial with a more stylized profile, featuring subtle shaping that echoes early 20th-century design language. Blued-steel hands provide a crisp contrast against both the silver and gold surfaces, shifting slightly in tone depending on the light and reinforcing the watch’s dynamic presence.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eInside, this watch is powered by a 17-jewel Elgin movement manufactured in 1922. Through the open caseback, the movement reveals Geneva striping across the bridges, along with polished steel components and gold-plated gears that add warmth and motion to the composition. Elgin was one of the largest and most respected American watchmakers of its time, known for producing reliable, well-finished movements at scale. The 12-size configuration offers a balanced layout, allowing a clear view of the gear train and balance assembly as they operate.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe watch is housed in our Version 3 stainless steel case, finished with a clean machined surface that provides a modern, precise frame for the vintage dial. A matching stainless steel bezel surrounds the dial with a subtle, refined edge, while the machined crown—positioned at 12 o’clock—preserves the original pocket watch orientation. This crown placement remains a defining feature of converted pieces, maintaining a direct connection to the watch’s origins. The watch is paired with a striking teal leather strap, whose bright tone makes this watch stand out, begging to be seen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBy the early 1920s, Elgin Watch Company had firmly established itself as a cornerstone of American watchmaking, producing millions of movements known for their durability and consistency. Pieces like the Chicago 115 highlight how even within large-scale production, there was still room for artistry and variation. The result is a watch that balances reliability with a level of decorative detail that feels distinctly personal.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Vortic Watch Company","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52017744904493,"sku":null,"price":4800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1710\/0345\/files\/1_2bfd9ce6-1035-49c8-b286-c20930a1275a.png?v=1776965031","url":"https:\/\/vorticwatches.com\/products\/the-chicago-115-45mm","provider":"Vortic","version":"1.0","type":"link"}