What Makes The Springfield 087 Unique:
The Springfield 087 presents a richly aged dial defined by a deep, dark antique patina that immediately sets the tone. Time has softened the surface into a warm, earthy finish, giving the dial a moody depth that feels both deliberate and authentic. Bold Arabic numerals stand proud against the darkened background, while a subtle ring of custom lume traces the outer edge of the dial, offering quiet functionality without disrupting the vintage character. We preserved the original gold-plated hands, whose warm tone complements the dial beautifully and adds a refined contrast as they sweep across the surface. A recessed sub-seconds dial at 6 o’clock introduces visual balance and reinforces the watch’s classic pocket-watch origins.
Inside, this watch is powered by a 17-jewel Illinois movement manufactured in 1927. Visible through the open caseback, the movement showcases elegantly striped bridges, polished steel components, and warm gold-toned gears that catch the light as the watch moves. The finishing reflects the care and precision that defined Illinois Watch Company movements during the late 1920s, offering both mechanical reliability and visual intrigue.
The watch is housed in a polished steel case that gives the piece a crisp, contemporary edge while allowing the dial’s age to remain the focal point. A patina’d bronze coin-edge bezel frames the dial with subtle texture, while the knurled bronze crown adds both tactile function and visual warmth. The case is paired with a chocolate-toned leather strap that complements the dial’s darker patina and bronze accents, completing a cohesive and grounded aesthetic that feels intentional from every angle.
In 1927, American industry continued to refine the balance between innovation and craftsmanship as manufacturers pushed toward higher standards of precision and reliability. That same year, American watchmaking was firmly established as a global leader, producing timepieces that combined durability with thoughtful design—an ethos that lives on in The Springfield 087 more than a century later.
