A Smiths Chronograph, with a Stunning Tropical Reverse Panda Dial That has Turned Chocolate Brown, c.1960s, With a Valjoux Caliber 7733 Movement. A Rare and Seldom Seen Example of A Smiths Chronograph in Almost New Old Stock Condition!

Starting in London as Samuel Smith in 1851, progressing down the years to becoming S.Smith & Sons (Motor Accessories), receiving its first Royal Warrant in 1907, then becoming S.Smith & Sons (England) Ltd, which split into Smiths Motor Accessories Ltd, Smiths Aircraft Instruments Ltd, Smiths English Clocks Ltd, and Smiths Industrial Instruments Ltd.

The factory in Cheltenham that eventually manufactured high-quality timepieces was built at the start of the Second World War. By the end of the Second World War, The Smiths Group comprised over 20 companies. 

What’s On Offer 

A rare c.1960s Smiths, two-register chronograph with a reverse panda dial. Smiths is one of the few brands adopted for NATO military use and whilst this piece is not a military issue, it is a seldom-seen example making it much sought after, especially in this condition.

The baton markers and two subsidiary dials at 3 & 9 o'clock, 'SMITHS' at 12, Tachymeter and outer track, centre seconds, 17 Jewels Incabloc & T-Swiss Made-T at 6 o'clock are all in great shape, preserved beautifully, and remain lovely and crisp.

The elegant stick hands with slight lume inserts glide around the pièce de résistance of this watch - the dial. Originally black, now a truly tropical chocolate hue with a freckling of charismatic patina, this dial has become more beautiful over time.  Boasting bags of charisma with an illustrious bloodline, substantial proportions, and handsome aesthetic, this rare timepiece is the perfect all-occasion watch, seamlessly carrying the wearer from day to evening wear and everything in between. It is in full working order and keeping accurate time, having just come back from our watchmaker after having the movement serviced. A wonderful example that would make a fantastic addition to any collection. 

Additional information

Made from

Case: Chrome Plated

Dial: Tropical Brown

Crystal: Plexiglass

Bracelet: A Vintage Looking VWS Leather Strap 

Technical specifications

Winding: Manual

Movement Type: Mechanical hand wound

Caliber: Valjoux 7733

Jewels: 17j

Waterproof: n/a

Power reserve: 45hrs

Purchase details

Condition: Excellent - Almost NOS - 9.5/10

Model Reference Number: Chronograph

Date of issue: c.1960s

Guarantee: 12 months by VWS

Dimensions

Width: 37mm

Lug width: 19mm

Lug height: (lug to lug) 42mm

Wrist size: Adjustable