J.W. Benson, London, heavy pocket watch with perpetual calendar, 1872

Heavy English perpetual calendar in 18 ct. gold from J.W. Benson, London, ca. 1872

The Benson family had been watchmakers since 1749. A company, trading as S.S. & J.W. Benson, was founded in 1847 by James William Benson (born in 1826 in Reading) and his older brother Samuel Suckley Benson (born in 1822 in London). The partnership was dissolved on 27th January 1855 and James William continued the business under the name, ‘J. W. Benson’. James William Benson died on 7th October 1878, aged 52, and his sons James, Alfred and Arthur took over the running of the business.

Throughout its history, J.W. Benson Ltd was official watchmaker to the Admiralty & the War Department and also held a number of royal warrants, being watchmakers to Queen Victoria, the Prince of Wales, the Tsar of Russia and several other royal families.

This item has a diameter of 54.6mm and weighs 160g. Wonderful dial in perfect condition with moon phase. Case in traditional english style, movement with patented winding mechanism, English lever escapement.

very nice collectors item of finest English origin. Watch has been cleaned recently!