What makes the Springfield 530 unique: Today, we are thrilled to showcase this brilliant watch, initially created by the Illinois Watch Company in 1929 — the Springfield 530. This piece is in pristine condition, encased by machined titanium and a beautiful tan leather strap. On the watch face, you’ll see beautifully curved numbers and a cobalt hand against a stark white background. On the center of the face, the private label is artfully inscribed: “Santa Fe Special.” This watch was named after the Santa Fe Railroad and is the little brother 12-size version of the Railroad Grade 16 size watch that was one of the highest quality watches that Illinois made. This watch is pendent set, so technically wouldn't be considered Railroad Grade, however, it is the closest thing to it in the 12-size. Moving to the back of the watch, you can peer through the clear display case and see the delicate gears and machined bridge plate, working together to make this piece shine. With 279-grade movement, this watch boasts 21 jewels and a beautiful golden inscription on the bridge plate, reminding the wearer that this watch is a “Santa Fe Special.”
This watch was originally manufactured in Springfield, Illinois, in 1929 — the same year when New York’s Museum of Modern Art was created. According to the Founding Director Alfred H. Barr. Jr., MoMA was built to provide New York with “the greatest museum of modern art in the world.” A decade later, in 1939, the museum was able to open its door and welcome New Yorkers and visitors alike to experience modern art at a whole new level. From its initial gift of just eight prints and one drawing, the MoMA proudly houses approximately 200,000 works of art today.
