What makes the Springfield 492 unique:Today, we're thrilled to present this stunning, pristine watch originally produced by the Illinois Watch Company in 1917 — the Springfield 492. The watch's dial boasts a flawless white background with stunning blue hour and minute hands, and the dial also features dark, bold numerals as well as a matching subdial. We paired this antique pocket watch with our PVD Bronze Titanium case and copper crown. The case and crown's rustic colors look gorgeous and emphasize the watch's elegant dial. We also equipped the watch with our handcrafted, comfortable Rye leather watch strap, which matches the copper crown. The PVD Bronze case features a clear back, where you can see the watch's antique components. The watch sports a 406-grade open-face movement with a nickel finish and pendant setting, and the back also boasts a breathtaking stylized engraving that reads "The Autocrat." Additionally, the watch features gold-plated gears and a center bridge plate showcasing 17 sumptuous jewels. The Illinois Watch Company initially manufactured the pocket watch in Springfield, Illinois, in 1917 — the same year that the United States officially declared war on Germany and entered World War I. The United States' involvement in World War I significantly increased our military capabilities. In 1917, the US army only had around 133,000 people. On May 18, Congress introduced the Selective Service Act, which drafted around 2.8 million people into the military. Additionally, two million Americans volunteered for the conflict.