English Silver J W Benson KEYLESS LUDGATE Half Hunter 1899

Code: 4.172

This is one of three watches I am listing this week which are examples of J W Benson’s English watches. All of which are hard to find. Alas this one shows age but is still a superb example

The watch has hallmarks for London 1899

This is one of J W Benson’s top quality pocket watch and is extremely hard to find in silver. The signs of the quality are there, the moment you pick the watch up. The watch is very heavy for its size and the case has an 15K gold bow.

Movement – the gilt ¾ plate movement has an adjusted balance and gold jewel settings. The movement is signed “The Keyless Ludgate Watch, J W Benson, Patent Number 4658, Best London Make, By Warrant to H.M. The Queen, Ludgate Hill, London” # 849322. The movement is in 95% mint condition

Case – the movement comes in a top quality English silver half Hunter case however the case has signs of wear. The front cover no longer pops open but has to be opened manually and rests in 110 degrees position.  The case has makers marks for JWB. There is an engraved monogram on the back and an inscription on the inner cover. The case has a gold ring. The case is in 75% mint condition – signs of wear throughout

Dial – the white enamel dial has a full set of blue steel hands and is signed “J W Benson, London”. The dial is in 90% mint condition – a small mark on the 12

The watch has a mineral glass over the dial and a mineral smaller glass in the front cover

The watch is stem wound / pin set

The watch measures 52mm wide x 15mm deep