On a bright early afternoon, a dear friend invited me to explore the site of the old Illinois Watch Company on 9th Street in downtown Springfield. As we neared the iconic Clock Tower, I was immediately struck by a deep sense of connection to the city’s rich industrial heritage.
Founded in 1869 as the Springfield Watch Company by John C. Adams and other local visionaries, the company was once the heartbeat of American watchmaking. During its heyday from 1900 to 1928, it employed over 1,300 people and produced up to 800 watches daily, solidifying itself as a key pillar of Sangamon County’s economy.
As we meandered through what remained of the once-vibrant factory, my friend recounted tales of the company's perseverance and adaptability. After facing financial turmoil and undergoing several reorganizations, it re-emerged as the Illinois Watch Company. Under the leadership of Jacob Bunn Sr., and later his son, the company shifted its focus to producing robust railroad watches, indispensable for the safety and accuracy needed in America’s expanding railroad industry. Renowned for their reliability under extreme conditions, these watches were cherished by railroad workers and adventurers alike.
Although the Illinois Watch Company ceased operations in 1928 following its acquisition by the Hamilton Watch Company, its legacy of meticulous craftsmanship and innovation continued to resonate. As our tour concluded, my friend gifted me two bricks from the original building - soon to be impacted by rail construction but with the Clock Tower slated for preservation. He also shared a collection of old black and white photographs that vividly captured the everyday moments of those who once filled the factory’s halls.
Motivated by this profound history and the celebrated tradition of railroad watches, we at Sangamon Watches are excited to introduce our new "American Railroad" collection. Inspired by the renowned Sangamo Special Railroad watch, this collection pays homage to the integral role of railroads in shaping American progress. The "American Railroad" collection aims to embody the spirit of an era when railways connected communities and drove economic growth across the nation.
Importantly, this collection will be the first to be hand-assembled and tested by our professional watchmaker right here in Springfield, IL. This initiative marks a significant step in our commitment to local craftsmanship, ensuring that each timepiece is imbued with personal dedication and the highest standards of quality.
The relics and stories from my visit have deepened my appreciation for Springfield's enduring watchmaking heritage and have been instrumental in the founding of Sangamon Watches. Our timepieces are crafted to honor the legacy of local artisans, their unwavering pursuit of excellence, and their innovative spirit. By continuing this legacy, we ensure that the essence of Springfield’s watchmaking excellence is not only preserved but also celebrated in every watch we create.
Each Sangamon watch extends beyond being a mere instrument of time; it is a continuation of a story that celebrates resilience, innovation, and craftsmanship- a narrative that perpetuates Springfield’s esteemed watchmaking tradition into the future. These watches are a testament to our commitment to uphold and advance the revered tradition of watchmaking in Springfield, ensuring its rich history continues to inspire. (Author: Brian Su, SangamonWatches.com)
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