A TRIBUTE TO PRECISION AND COMPLICATE...

Hotel Nogalhilton Geneve, Nov 11, 2001

LOT 121

Precision Timekeeper with 4 ComplicationsJ.W. Benson, 25 Old Bond St., London, circa 1890.Very fine and rare "giant" gilt brass 8 day-going, triple-train, grande sonnerie quarter-repeating carriage clock.

CHF 40,000 - 45,000

USD 24,000 - 28,000

C. Glazed on four sides and on top, molded cornice with beaded edge, rectangular base with stepped top, canted corners, massive gilt brass handle. D. Silvered, circular hour chapter with radial Roman numerals and outer minute ring, subsidiary seconds set below XII o'clock. Blued steel "fleur-de-lis" hands. M. Rectangular brass, triple fusee and chain, going train with maintaining power, platform with lateral lever escapement with lift on the pallets, cut bimetallic compensation balance, blued stel flat balance spring, entire escapement jeweled, striking on three gongs with three hammers, strike/stop lever on the back.Signed on dial and movement.Dim. 28 mm, width 16 cm.


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3 - 01

Notes

J. W. BensonJ. W. Benson Ltd was one of the leading makers of high quality watches in later 19th century London. James William Benson, who, in 1865 described himself as watchmaker to the Prince of Wales, made and retailed a wide range of models, which were mainly produced by specialist out-workers around the city. He, and his successors, Arthur H. Benson and Alfred Benson, also supplied chronometer movements to Kulberg, between 1868 and 1920. James Benson further brought his company's name to prominence byriting a series of semi-professional books and pamphlets which enjoyed considerable success but are now rare. The company was also one of the pioneers of wristwatches in England and held a patent for a double bodied watch with screw bezel and hinged movement. Today, the company is part of Asprey group.