The Springfield 137 (45mm)

What makes the Springfield 137 unique:   The Springfield 137 brings together whimsical charm and precision craftsmanship in a design that’s both elegant and expressive. Its lightly brushed dial features a distinctive linear texture—almost like metal striations—that shifts subtly in the light. A set of large, black numerals in a hand-painted style gives the dial a storybook quality, with each number resembling a paintbrush stroke. At center, a pair of gothic-style hands completes the picture, blending ornamental form with practical function. The recessed sub-seconds dial at 6 o’clock balances the composition, with its own set of petite gothic hands adding to the harmony. Powering this piece is a 17-jewel movement originally crafted by the Illinois Watch Company in 1925. One of the more unique elements of this mechanism is the “Sterling” signature engraved directly onto the bridge—a nod to Illinois’s historic line of higher-grade movements. This particular build also features a "double roller," an important safety upgrade from the era that adds an extra jewel roller to protect the balance staff from shock and increase timekeeping stability. Paired with elegant bridgework and period-correct typography, this movement is as beautiful as it is historically significant. We’ve housed this piece in a sandblasted stainless steel case for a soft, matte finish that contrasts nicely with the smooth polished bezel. The case is topped with a knurled, machined-steel crown, giving it a tactile feel and vintage aesthetic. It’s finished with a deep ebony leather strap with light stitching—a subtle pairing that lets the dial speak for itself. In 1925, the same year this Illinois movement was produced, the first motel in the United States—known as the "Milestone Mo-Tel"—opened in San Luis Obispo, California. It marked a pivotal moment in American travel culture, reflecting the same spirit of mobility and innovation that defined the early 20th century—and continues to inspire our work today.