These J.W. Benson Tropical watches have upgraded Smiths movements.
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
These watches were made in 1953 and 1954, and we have opted for the later year where the word TROPICAL featured on the dial more consistently.
CONDITION
This was an interesting time for both JW Benson and Smiths. Benson’s had their London premises destroyed in an air raid during WW2, and were looking to rebuild. Smiths started making wrist watches post WW2, and in 1953 one of their watches was on Sir Edmund Hilary as he ascended Everest – that watch you can see in the Museum of Timekeeping. It made perfect sense for both these English brands to pair up. To differentiate the J.W. Benson from the standard Smiths watch, an extra jewel was added to make these 16 jewel versions of the standard Smiths 12.15 manual wind movement, possibly to help explain a price difference.
These Tropical watches are normally more expensive than this, but the case plating and lugs have worn and the dial is not excellent either. This weathered or Rat Rod look will appeal to some buyers more than a mint, restored watch, but we feel we have priced it to make it attractive to more people. The movement is working well, but the dust cover is missing – this does not affect the day to day running of the watch, but we are just giving full disclosure. The leather strap is new, and could be swapped for a different colour if preferred.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 35.9 mm
Width without crown 32.8 mm
Between lugs 17 mm
Lug to lug length 41.3 mm
Case Thickness 11.5 mm
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
