Elgin '600' Scafograf dive watch c.1972
Elgin '600' Scafograf dive watch c.1972
The Elgin ‘600’ model best made known by the venerable, and nearly identical, Eberhard Scafograf 500 dive watch of the 1970’s, but this is the only prominent brand with American roots that also marketed the design. With other small, private labels having offered the design, the Elgin is far and away the most desirable behind the pricey Eberhard itself. Let’s look at what this one offers, including the obviously striking aesthetics:
The Case - Sizeable wrist presence, but wears smaller due to (surprisingly) being thin for its size + hidden lugs being tucked close to the case, keeping the length very modest (almost ‘square’).
The Bezel - Turns & clicks nice and easy, but not loose whatsoever. These variations have printed bezels (other than the recessed lume plot), so often much, if not all, of the ink gets worn off. As you can tell, 95%+ of the bezel marking is intact.
The Crown - Original, Elgin-signed screw down crown.
The Dial - Appears NOS condition. No noticeable flaws.
The Hands - Appears NOS condition. No noticeable flaws.
The Crystal - Extremely light/few deficiences, most not noticeable to the eye. No prominent scratches whatsoever.
The Movement - Cal. 2783 produced approx. between 1969 and 1976, which helps date the watch. Running very well for unknown service history; definitely acceptable performance & condition.
Movement: ETA 2783, 17 jewels, 21,600 bph
Case: Signed, solid stainless steel
Powered: Mechanical - Automatic
Case Width: 43.7 mm (46mm incl. crown)
Case Length: 45.2 mm
Lug Width: 20 mm
Thickness: 12.2mm
Crystal: Flat mineral glass crystal
Crown: Original, signed screw down
Band: New Tropic Sport-style silicone band
Boxes: None
Function - This watch is wound automatically by the natural motion of your arm. It is recommended to wind the crown 10-15 times to typically give an initial power reserve to last throughout the day.
[All vintage watches are expected to function as described. However, due to age and generally unknown service history (unless otherwise stated), these watches may not keep time as accurately as new or quartz (battery) watches. This is completely normal and does not indicate that there is a major problem. Like your automobile, all mechanical watches will likely need to be serviced at some point in time. Please keep this in mind, as there is no guarantee regarding when these vintage watches may need standard maintenance. Every watch sold by Buying On Time is done so with the expectation that it is not currently in need of service or repair, unless noted. We guarantee that all watches sold are accurately described and in the stated condition when they leave our hands.]