Benrus 17 Jewels Ladies Watch Value Guide

The Benrus 17 Jewels Ladies Watch is a classic example of mid-century American horology, featuring a Swiss-made movement cased in the United States. Produced between 1950 and 1965, these watches are collected for their durable mechanical movements and the elegant aesthetic synonymous with the Lazrus brothers' design legacy.

What Is Benrus 17 Jewels Ladies Watch Worth?

The typical price range for Benrus 17 Jewels Ladies Watch is $25 - $35 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical functionality: A watch in working order with a clean 17-jewel movement commands the full $35 value.
• Condition of the gold-tone plating: Significant wear or brassing on the case and expansion band will lower the price toward $25.
• Crystal clarity: Original glass crystals that are free of deep scratches or cracks are highly preferred by collectors.
• Originality: The presence of the original expansion band and crown significantly impacts the desirability for mid-century enthusiasts.

How to Identify Benrus 17 Jewels Ladies Watch?

• Check the dial for the 'Benrus' brand name and '17 Jewels' marking, typically located below the 12 o'clock position.
• Inspect the case back for 'Stainless Steel' or 'Gold Electroplated' stamps characteristic of 1950s-1960s construction.
• Verify the presence of a mechanical hand-wind movement, as Benrus focused on these before their late 1960s decline.
• Examine the expansion band for period-correct styling and integrated spring-loaded links common to the era.

History of Benrus 17 Jewels Ladies Watch

Benrus was an American watch company established in New York City in 1921 by three brothers: Benjamin, Ralph, and Oscar Lazrus. They aimed to create high-quality, Swiss-made movements that were cased and finished in the United States. Benrus watches were known for their durability and stylish designs, becoming popular during the mid-20th century. The company supplied watches to the military during World War II and later expanded into electronic watches, though they primarily focused on mechanical movements like the 17-jewel model seen here. Benrus ceased operations in the late 1960s, but the brand name has been revived multiple times.