Smiths oversized 18 jewel (1953)

This is the largest size gold watch that Smiths made at 35mm, making it a more contemporary size than many vintage pieces. In addition to the size of the case, the movement is significant;y enhanced from the standard model - there are an additional three jewels (cap jewels on the escape wheel, plus jeweling to the centre wheel on the top plate). These jewels are all designed to minimising friction within the movement and so ensuring more accurate time keeping. Additionally the hairspring has a Breguet overcoil, which gives enhanced accuracy in different positions and there is shock protection on the balance pivots.

The performance of the movement is significantly better than a regular Smiths movement, indeed I believe their 18 jewel movement bears comparison with the top Swiss brands.

The dial is in beautiful condition and unusually there is no dedication inscription on the back, this is unusual as these watches were marketed by Smiths for long service presentation in companies, so when they are found they usually bear this sort of engraving. The watch is paired with a new old stock pigskin strap, which I think harmonises with the tone of the gold wonderfully.

The case is hallmarked for Edinburgh 1953 (date letter ‘x’) and the case was made by British Watch Cases Limited (BWC) in their workshop on the Pentonville Road in north London.


Specifications:
Case diameter (excluding winding crown): 35mm
Case material: 9 carat gold
strap width: 17mm
time keeping: grade A