1960s Rare Smiths All English Made Braille Wristwatch with Flip Up Lid in Fine Condition
Product Code: AWCSM9921
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This Watch
A special watch produced in half and full hunter varieties. For partially and non-sighted people, nonetheless an interesting collectors item with robust hands and a Swiss-made, enamel dial. This rare early example is actually a fully operating flip up lid style wristwatch with the lid opening pusher between the lower lugs. As usual the enamel dial, which is marked Swiss made, as the Swiss enamelling was probably cheaper and better than the British equivalent.
Top and mid section are chromed, and the baseback is steel. The watch is on a vintage style brown strap , with the buckle in stainless steel. . The movement is a standard c series 12 ligne 15 jewel movement from the 1960s. Case diameter 33.5mm. This has been fully overhauled and keeps great time as you would expect from a braille watch.
Extra Points
Originally founded in London in 1851 by Samuel Smith, the company first established itself by making automotive dials and cockpit instruments and obtained a Royal warrant in 1907. A factory was built in Cheltenham at the beginning of the Second World War, and it is from this factory that the majority of vintage Smiths come from. It was at this time that Smiths’ military involvement began. They received contracts from the MoD to provide watches, which they made from scratch. By the end of the War, Smiths consisted of over 20 companies, ranging from motors to aviation, and, of course, clocks and watches. By the late 1970s, the clock and watch division of the company had broken up. The most famous Smiths wearer has to be Sir Edmund Hilary, who carried a Smiths watch to the summit of Everest.
What we think
We think that Smiths is such an underrated company and they definitely deserve a lot more appreciation. An all-English made watch that oozes style, what's not to love? This dress watch is perfect for both men and women, a vintage watch collector or a newbie. with the added interest of the Braille factor along with this watch being made in England.
Spec Stuff
Specific Age : 1960s
Case Size : 33mm
Case Thickness : 11mm
Lug to Lug : 42mm
Lugs : 16mm
Condition : Pre-Owned
Box & Papers : No
Case Material : Chrome / Steel Back
Service History : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty