Smiths for Garrard (1961)
The watch case is in simply outstanding condition - I don't think I have ever handled one with less wear. The edges are all crisp and the watch was clearly worn very sparingly. I believe the strap is also the original one it was sold with. The dial has discolouration of the lacquer around some of the numerals, but I don't think it detracts too much from the overall impression. The dial is rather an unusual pattern - I have not seen any other Smiths-Garrard watches with this design, where the roman numerals are all luminised.
The movement is the best quality, 18 jewel offering from Smiths - it has several enhancements over the standard movement: cap jewels on the balance wheel, a Breguet overcoil hairspring and an additional jewel to the centre wheel. All of these improvements are designed to improve the timekeeping performance of the movement and I certainly think they’re comparable with the very best Swiss-made watches from the same period. The movement has been fully serviced and is keeping excellent time.
The case is made by Dennison and is their Aquatite model. Dennison was the largest UK watch case manufacturer and supplied cases to a wide range of companies besides Smiths, including such luminaries as Rolex and Omega. The Aquatite was their waterproof model and it has a screw closure caseback. The case has been ultrasonically cleaned but not polished (as with all our vintage watches). Please be aware that this watch case is no longer completely waterproof - the seals and the age of the watch preclude totally sealing it.
The watch comes with the original box, a sure sign that it was cherished. All in all a lovely watch that’s ready to wear and enjoy.
Case diameter (excluding winding crown): 33mm
Case material: 9 carat gold, hallmarked Birmingham 1959
strap width: 18mm
time keeping: grade A
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