Inherited watch info

[DaffyT4]

I have recently become the owner of this watch and was hoping someone might be able to tell me a little about it. I have no intention of parting with it.

It was presented to my grandfather by his employer in 1962 to mark 25 years service, and is engraved as such on the rear. It has spent the last 20 years in a tin in a cupboard and appears to be in very good condition.

[Mabbs9]

I just googled the maker. Sounds interesting already. I look forward to hearing too. Lovely watch.

[AB]

https://www.smithswatches.com/collections/smiths-j...

https://hancockslondon.com/makers/benson-jw?srslti...

[DaffyT4]

Thank you for the links (the first one is not easy to read!) - looks to be a reasonable quality watch with a nice heritage

[BrokenSkunk]

From memory Benson wrist watches were assembled by the jewellwers themselves using movements and cases purchased in. They made some pretty good stuff and used high quality parts. If you're lucky you may find a Longines or a Universal Geneve movement ticking away inside a Benson.

[glazbagun]

They were a prestigious British jeweller back in the day with a history of esteemed clients before eventually selling up to Garrards in the 70's:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_William_Benson