The Star-studded Suiter
Hey, look at this pedigree!
Established in 1921, Benrus has built a reputation for crafting precise watches with a focus in durability. The innovations towards shock and water resistance remained the bedrock for the brand with an aim for accuracy to persist through even the most demanding physical constraints. As a result, they gained recognition for supplying the U.S. military during World War II, emphasizing its commitment to reliability. With a century of craftsmanship, Benrus has created tool watches that would not be amiss with a formal setting. This approach has earned the brand respect through rich history and lasting precision.
There are only so many components to a watch, so finding ways to express craftsmanship can be a challenge. The lugs, beginning as a purely functional addition to pocket watches for convenience, have turned into a maker’s mark. Teardrop, hinged, or other fancy designs cropped up to differentiate their product from the next.
This piece embraces a fancy lug that resembles a leave shape, but I have decided that its more poetic to call them crescent moons to match the constellatory dial. Between the stars and the moons, this watch sits right there next to the most exotic of Vacheron Constantin pieces from the same era.
Vintage wristwatches exhibit a captivating spectrum of distinctive indices that contribute both utilitarian and aesthetic nuances to each timepiece. Ranging from refined numerals to artfully crafted hour markers, these indices serve as eloquent expressions of design ingenuity. Some watches feature whimsical symbols or avant-garde shapes, elevating them to the status of captivating conversational artifacts. Others exemplify meticulous craftsmanship with intricate detailing, offering a visual homage to the prevailing design aesthetics of their respective eras. Benrus abundantly expressed their love of stars as a nod to their militaristic history. The distinct three stars emblazoned beneath their name nearly resembles a rank badge you’d find on a uniform…
Specifications:
Waterproof, Dustproof, Self winding, need I say more. If that doesn’t get the message across, take a look at the back of this case. Benrus is proud to share that their product will outlast you. This example has a 10k gold filled case. It looks to have been polished before as the lugs and case have lost a bit of their crispness on the edges, but it seems carefully and tastefully done to preserve the gold sheen without discarding too much material. The crown appears to be original and even comes with a handsome leather strap and matching gold buckle.
Conclusion, I don’t think there is a better deal out there right now that checks the boxes of dress watch, durability, and vintage charm. Benrus has a colorful history and worth exploring as a pillar of watchmaking in a golden era. For the same price as a fashion watch, I don’t think you’ll find a more unique and special piece that you won’t need to be afraid to wear.
Maker: Benrus circa. 1960s
Movement: Automatic
Model: 775514
Case: 10k Gold Filled
Case Measurement: 33mm diameter
Lug Width: Unlisted, 14-16mm estimate (consult seller)
Functions: Time-only
Sale Format: Buy Now or Best Offer
Price: Listed at $980, I’d offer $750 and try and land in the $800-825 range. This is incredible value for the money and I believe could even be worth closer to what they’re asking.
*Disclaimer: All information is pulled directly from the source link. I hold no information on its accuracy. It is your responsibility to communicate with the seller to verify information and undergo safe practices when exchanging for a watch with a seller.