JW Benson Demi-Hunter Pocket Watch
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1902
This antique demi-hunter pocket watch is attributed to the London-based retailer JW Benson. Constructed with a 50mm sterling silver case, the watch features a hinged front cover with a central viewing aperture surrounded by blue enamel Roman numerals, allowing the user to view the time without opening the case.
The watch is powered by a 17-jewel mechanical movement of Swiss origin, signed "JW BENSON LONDON" on the movement bridge. The dial is white with black Roman numerals, spade-style hands, and a recessed small seconds sub-dial at the six o'clock position. The internal case covers bear British sterling silver hallmarks. According to the provided description, the watch dates to approximately 1902, is in good condition, and has undergone recent service.
The exterior displays minor wear consistent with its age, and the blue enamel on the cover remains intact.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Demi-hunter pocket watch
- Maker
- JW BENSON
- Jewel count
- 17 jewels
- Case diameter
- 50mm
- Case material
- Sterling silver
- Dial features
- Spade hands and sub-seconds
- Movement type
- Mechanical, hand-wound
- Place recorded
- England
- Approximate date
- circa 1902
- Maker / attribution
- JW Benson
Design
- Case and Dial
- The watch is housed in a 50mm sterling silver demi-hunter case. The front cover incorporates a circular glass aperture, rimmed with blue enamel Roman numerals to enable reading the time while the watch is closed. The silver casing features hallmarks on the interior surfaces, documenting its composition. The white dial displays black Roman numerals and spade-style hour and minute hands. A recessed seconds register is positioned at the six o'clock mark. The auction description notes the dial is in clean condition, and the blue enamel decoration on the exterior cover is free from damage.
- Visible features
- • Blue enamel Roman numerals on the front cover • Recessed small seconds sub-dial at 6 o'clock • Gilded mechanical movement plate
- Movement and Origin
- The movement is a Swiss-made, 17-jewel mechanical caliber. It is signed by the retailer JW Benson, London. The movement is visible through the rear hinged cover and exhibits a gilded finish. The mechanism has recently been serviced and is described as being in clean and functional condition.
- Provenance and Condition
- The watch is attributed to the year 1902. It exhibits minor cosmetic signs of use, primarily light scratching on the silver body, which the auction description indicates is commensurate with the age of the object. No previous ownership history is provided. The watch is sold as a vintage item with its current service status noted by the seller.
Identification
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Precise dating is approximate
- Research required: The extent and date of the "recent service" are not specified