This watch

This exceptional timepiece, dating to 1909, represents a prestigious collaboration between three giants of the horological world: the retailer J.W. Benson, the manufacturer Longines, and the importer Baume & Co.

The watch is housed in a substantial, high-quality solid .925 sterling silver case, fully hallmarked for London, 1909. The case bears the maker's mark 'AB', belonging to Arthur Baume of Baume & Co.. Baume was the sole agent for Longines in the UK and British Empire at this time, and seeing the 'AB' mark alongside a Benson signature is the "gold standard" of provenance for this era.

The beautiful porcelain (white enamel) dial is in wonderful condition, featuring two secondary registers: a 30-minute counter at 12 o'clock and subsidiary seconds at 6 o'clock. It is signed "J.W. Benson, London" and features a clean, technical layout with a outer 60 seconds track, typical of high-grade military or sporting chronographs of the early 20th century.

Beneath the silver dust cover lies the heart of this timepiece: the Longines Calibre 19.73N. This is a legendary manual-wind, column-wheel chronograph movement. The 'N' designation refers to the 'New' 19.73 calibre, which featured refined bridge work and superior finishing.

Known for its precision and reliability, the 19.73N was a flagship movement for Longines and was frequently chosen for high-stakes timing tasks, from military service to scientific exploration. The movement is a joy to behold, featuring frosted gilt plates, a bi-metallic compensated balance, and the complex, tactile mechanical ballet of the column-wheel chronograph mechanism.

Extra Points

Starting in the mid eighteenth century, JW Benson is one of the longest serving, all-British watchmaking companies, with a reputation to boot. The company acquired Royal patronage in 1879. Clerkenwell, home to Antique Watch Co. for nearly 50 years, is well known for its horological past, and part of its history extends to the JW Benson factory being opened in Ludgate Hill in 1892. JW Benson is now a subsidiary of Mappin and Webb, but their celebrated watches have stood the test of time.

These Longines watches retailed by J.W. Benson are highly prized by collectors today as they represent a unique blend of Swiss horological excellence (Longines movements) and the heritage of one of Great Britain's most historic luxury retail names (J.W. Benson, which held Royal Warrants).

What We Think

This watch is a fascinating document of the Edwardian watch trade. In 1909, J.W. Benson was the most prestigious name on Ludgate Hill, but when a customer required a complicated stopwatch of the highest order, Benson turned to the best in the world—Longines.

The connection between Arthur Baume (AB) and Longines is particularly satisfying for collectors. It confirms that this watch followed the official, high-quality import route into London over 115 years ago.

The porcelain dial is a standout feature; unlike modern dials that can fade or flake, porcelain retains its deep, milk-white luster forever, provided it is cared for. To find a silver chronograph of this age, with a movement of this calibre, retailed by Benson and imported by Baume, is a rare alignment of quality and history. It is a robust, functional, and deeply impressive "antique gem" ready for its next century of service.

Spec Stuff