Lot 16: A Mid-20th Century English Smiths Imperial Gold-Plated Metal Wristwatch
A mid-20th Century English wristwatch by Smiths Imperial. The watch features a circular black dial with applied gold-tone faceted arrowhead hour markers and dauphine hands, accompanied by a central sweep seconds hand with a red pointer tip. The dial is printed with a crown motif above SMITHS IMPERIAL in script, with 19 JEWELS and SHOCKPROOF printed below the centre. The lower edge of the dial is marked MADE IN ENGLAND. The circular case is constructed from gold-plated metal and features a textured winding crown. The watch is fitted with a gold-tone expansion bracelet, with individual links stamped FIXO-FLEX. The watch is presented in its original box, the cream satin interior of which is printed with SMITHS IMPERIAL and a crown motif in gold. Seven additional expansion links, also stamped FIXO-FLEX, are included. No other maker’s marks, signatures, or labels are visible on the item.
Condition report:
The wristwatch shows signs of significant wear and age. The gold-plated metal case exhibits heavy wear to the plating, particularly on the lugs, bezel edges, and winding crown, revealing the base metal beneath (photo 1). The acrylic crystal is heavily scuffed and scratched across the entire surface, which partially obscures the dial (photo 2). The black dial appears well-preserved under the crystal, with some minor surface dust visible. The expansion bracelet shows surface scratches and dirt accumulation between the links. The presentation box shows shelf wear to the exterior, while the interior satin lining has significant foxing and age-related staining (photo 1). The mechanical movement has not been tested for timekeeping or functionality.
Share this lot: