An exceptional c.1930 Sterling Silver cushion case men’s wristwatch from 19th century London’s most respected watchmaker J.W. Benson, a company that once held the Royal Warrant to Queen Victoria, the Prince of Wales and the Kings of Siam (Thailand) and Denmark
The pearly white dial remains in truly wonderful condition for its age and and features handsomely aged pumpkin lume Arabic numerals, luminous syringe hands, a ‘chemin de fer’ or ‘train track’ minute track and a sub seconds dial at 6 o’clock (the small spot above 5 o’clock has since been removed)
In stark contrast to the clean dial the Sterling Silver cushion case and bezel is heavily yet gracefully aged and oxidised, featuring a blue and black finish only time can replicate. Perhaps not to everyone’s taste, the watch can of course undergo a professional polish (free of charge) upon request
What is truly exciting is that the case was made by master casemaker François Borgel, the man who patented a waterproof watch before Rolex and a man who made cases for the brand, as well as for Patek Phillipe, IWC, Longines, Mido, Movada and West End
The case back bears initials of those the watch was gifted from and to while the inside bears bold hallmarks as well as Swiss and British patent markings
The acrylic glass is clear and secure
The brown strap and metal buckle are in near new condition
From the 1910s, J.W. Benson exclusively used Swiss movements. This piece is powered but the 15 jewel manual wind Cyma 052 that runs smoothly and keeps good time
Case width - 30mm
Lug to lug - 35mm
Lug width - 18mm
Strap length including head - 23cm
