ELGIN 17056347 Mechanical Manual Watch Movement

( Brand: Elgin ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 17056347 ), ( Type: Movement ), ( Movement Type: Mechanical ), ( Material: Metal )

Review ELGIN Mechanical Manual Watch Movement Metal Component

The **Elgin 17056347** is a meticulously crafted mechanical watch movement that embodies the timeless elegance and precision engineering of vintage American horology. Originating from the legendary Elgin Watch Company, one of the most influential names in watchmaking history, this movement represents a masterful blend of durability, reliability, and intricate craftsmanship. Designed as a **full-size, column-wheel chronograph** with a **17-jewel, 17-size** configuration, the 17056347 stands as a testament to the sophistication of mid-20th-century watchmaking, offering both collectors and enthusiasts a piece of horological heritage with modern appeal.

At its core, the 17056347 features a **highly efficient 17-jewel, 17-size** movement, which balances power reserve and complexity while maintaining exceptional accuracy. The **column-wheel mechanism** a hallmark of Elgin s chronograph designs delivers smooth, precise timing for the stopwatch function, with a power reserve of approximately **40 hours**, ensuring extended operation between windings. The movement is built with **high-grade steel components**, including a robust **gear train, escapement, and balance wheel**, all meticulously finished to minimize friction and maximize efficiency. The **hand-wound mechanism** requires regular maintenance, rewarding the wearer with the satisfying ritual of winding and the rich, resonant ticking characteristic of mechanical timepieces.

One of the most striking features of the 17056347 is its **vintage-inspired design**, which includes a **full-size chronograph layout** with three sub-dials typically positioned at the 3, 6, and 9 o clock positions along with a **central seconds hand** for precise timing. The movement s **bridge-and-plate construction** is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with **engraved and polished surfaces** that reflect the meticulous attention to detail typical of Elgin s golden era. The **chronograph pushers** are strategically placed for ease of use, allowing the wearer to start, stop, and reset the chronograph with minimal effort, making it ideal for both everyday wear and specialized timing applications.

Beyond its mechanical prowess, the 17056347 movement is celebrated for its **versatility and adaptability**, making it a sought-after choice for watchmakers and restorers seeking to revive classic timepieces. Whether paired with a vintage Elgin case or rehoused in a modern design, this movement brings a sense of nostalgia and craftsmanship that resonates with horology purists. Its **timeless appeal** lies not only in its technical specifications but also in the **story it carries** a piece of American watchmaking history that continues to captivate enthusiasts with its blend of innovation and tradition.

For those drawn to the art of mechanical watchmaking, the Elgin 17056347 movement offers a unique opportunity to experience the **precision, artistry, and enduring legacy** of a bygone era. With its **full-size chronograph functionality, 17-jewel efficiency, and vintage charm**, it stands as a remarkable example of how mechanical watchmaking can seamlessly merge heritage with modern horological excitement. Whether used in a restored classic or as a foundation for a custom creation, this movement is more than just a timekeeper it is a **piece of history** that continues to turn with grace and reliability.

The Elgin 17056347 is a manual-winding mechanical movement, originally produced by the Elgin National Watch Company (now part of Timex Group). Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros of the Elgin 17056347 Movement**

1. **Proven Reliability and Durability**

The Elgin brand has a long history dating back to the 19th century, and its movements were known for durability in their time. While modern manufacturing standards may differ, the movement s design reflects traditional watchmaking principles that prioritize longevity. Many vintage Elgin movements, when properly maintained, can last decades with regular servicing.

2. **Manual-Winding Mechanism**

A manual-wind movement encourages engagement with the watch. Unlike automatic movements, which rely on motion to wind, this movement requires the wearer to wind it daily (or at least periodically), which can be seen as a nostalgic or intentional choice for those who appreciate the ritual of winding a watch.

3. **Simplicity and Ease of Maintenance**

Mechanical movements like this one are generally simpler than modern quartz or complex automatic movements, which can have more components (e.g., tourbillons, chronographs). This simplicity can make repairs and servicing more straightforward and less expensive, especially if the watch is serviced by a skilled watchmaker familiar with vintage movements.

4. **Potential for Customization and Restoration**

The Elgin 17056347 is a classic movement that can be restored or adapted to fit modern cases or dials. Enthusiasts often repurpose vintage movements into custom watches, giving them a unique character. The movement s size (typically 17-size, around 17.5mm in diameter) makes it versatile for various case designs.

5. **Historical and Collectible Value**

For collectors or those interested in horology history, owning a piece with an Elgin movement can be appealing. The movement s association with a storied brand may hold sentimental or investment value, especially if the watch is part of a vintage or retro aesthetic.

6. **Lower Cost Compared to High-End Movements**

Compared to modern luxury movements (e.g., ETA, Sellita, or high-end Japanese movements), the Elgin 17056347 is relatively inexpensive to acquire or repair. This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers or those building a watch from scratch.

7. **No Battery Dependency**

Unlike quartz watches, mechanical movements do not require batteries, which can be a plus for those who prefer self-sufficient timekeeping. While they do require winding, they offer a more "old-school" reliability in that regard.

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### **Cons of the Elgin 17056347 Movement**

1. **Age and Potential Wear**

The Elgin 17056347 is a vintage movement, and its age means it may have accumulated wear over the years. Even if it is in good condition, the risk of internal wear (e.g., worn pallet stones, loose jewels, or degraded lubricants) is higher than with a new movement. This could lead to inaccuracies or eventual failure if not serviced regularly.

2. **Limited Availability of Parts and Servicing**

While Elgin movements are not extremely rare, finding a qualified watchmaker who specializes in vintage American movements can be challenging. Parts, especially original ones, may be difficult to source, and repairs could require sourcing aftermarket components or even custom-made parts. This can increase long-term costs.

3. **Inconsistent Quality Control**

Vintage movements were not subject to the same stringent quality control as modern movements. Variations in craftsmanship, material quality, and assembly standards mean that some Elgin movements may be more reliable than others. Buyers may need to be prepared for potential issues like irregularity or ticking.

4. **No Modern Features or Adjustments**

- **High precision** (vintage movements often lose or gain seconds per day, whereas modern movements aim for sub-second accuracy).

- **Jewel count** (vintage movements typically have fewer jewels than modern ones, which can affect longevity).

- **Modern lubricants** (original lubricants may have degraded over time, affecting smoothness and durability).

- **Adjustment features** (e.g., no easy access to the balance wheel for fine-tuning, which is common in modern movements).

5. **Potential for Rust or Corrosion**

Older movements may suffer from rust or corrosion, especially if they were stored in humid environments or not properly maintained. This can affect the movement s functionality and require extensive cleaning during servicing.

6. **No Warranty or Guarantee**

Since the movement is vintage, it will not come with a warranty. Any repairs or replacements will be at the buyer s own risk and expense. This lack of protection can be a significant drawback compared to purchasing a new or serviced movement.

7. **Limited Accuracy**

Vintage mechanical movements are not designed for the same level of precision as modern movements. They may lose or gain time over the course of a day, which can be frustrating for those who rely on their watches for accurate timekeeping. Modern movements often include features like temperature compensation and improved escapements to minimize such issues.

8. **Potential for Overhauls to Be Costly**

If the movement is in poor condition, a full overhaul (cleaning, lubrication, replacement of worn parts) can be expensive. While not as costly as repairing a high-end movement, the cumulative cost of servicing a vintage movement over its lifetime can add up, especially if parts need to be sourced from collectors or specialty suppliers.

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### **Conclusion**

The Elgin 17056347 movement is a fascinating piece of horological history with distinct advantages for collectors, DIY watchmakers, or those seeking a vintage aesthetic. Its simplicity, durability, and historical significance make it an appealing choice for enthusiasts who prioritize character over modern precision. However, its age-related drawbacks such as potential wear, limited servicing options, and inconsistent accuracy mean it is not ideal for those seeking a hassle-free, high-precision timepiece.

For buyers who are prepared to invest time and effort into maintaining or restoring the movement, the Elgin 17056347 can be a rewarding project. Conversely, those who prefer modern reliability, ease of servicing, or high accuracy would likely be better served by a contemporary mechanical movement (e.g., Sellita SW200, ETA 2824, or a Japanese movement like Seiko 6139).

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### **Recommendation**

- You are a collector or enthusiast interested in vintage watchmaking.

- You enjoy the process of restoring or customizing watches and are willing to invest time in maintenance.

- You prefer a manual-wind movement for its simplicity and the ritual of winding.

- You are building a watch from scratch and want a cost-effective, historically significant movement.

- You are okay with potential inaccuracies and are prepared for the possibility of repairs.

- You prioritize modern accuracy, reliability, and ease of servicing.

- You are not comfortable with the challenges of maintaining a vintage movement.

- You want a watch that requires minimal upkeep and has a long-term warranty.

- You are looking for a movement with a higher jewel count or modern refinements (e.g., anti-magnetic properties, temperature compensation).

For most casual watch wearers, a modern movement (such as those from Seiko, Miyota, or ETA) would be a more practical and low-maintenance choice. However, for those drawn to the charm and history of vintage watchmaking, the Elgin 17056347 can be a compelling and unique addition to a collection. Always thoroughly inspect the movement before purchasing, and consider having it serviced by a professional familiar with vintage movements to assess its condition.

Details:

Elgin Mechanical Manual Watch Movement Metal 17056347 Component.

part #: 17056347 prices

• $29.99-$79.99

specifications movementparpar:

• brand: Elgin
• mpn: 17056347
• type: Movement
• movement type: Mechanical
• material: Metal

offer movementparpar:

• availability: In Stock
• options: Ship-to-home
• quantity: 1
• best offers: True
• started: March 7, 2026
• sold: 0

payments movementparpar:

• money order
• credit card: Mastercard
• wallet: Paypal
• other

shipping movementparpar:

• carrier: USPS
• transit: 5-12 Days
• class: Standard
• type: Calculated
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• cost: $5.52

returns movementparpar:

• policy: No Returns

general movementparpar:

• Parts, Tools Guides > Parts > Movements
• condition: Pre-owned

seller movementparpar:

• rating: 100.0%
• city: Miami, Florida
• # reviews: 435

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