Benrus Shock-Absorb Tonneau | 12K Gold Filled | Silver Dial Sub-Seconds | c.1940s Manual Wind | Pre-Owned

Benrus Shock-Absorb Tonneau | 12K Gold Filled | Silver Dial | Sub-Seconds | c.1940s Manual Wind

There is a specific confidence to the mid-century American dresser — unhurried, architectural,
built to last. This Benrus tonneau delivers exactly that. The barrel-shaped 12K gold-filled case
frames a silvered dial laid out in classic Art Deco geometry: stepped chapter ring, Arabic numerals
at even positions, fine baton indices, and a dedicated sub-seconds register at 6 o’clock. Blued
steel hands complete the period-correct palette. The “SHOCKPROOF” text at center dial is Benrus’s
own marketing for their shock-absorbing movement protection — a genuine period feature, not a
retrofit. The case back stamps confirm 1/20 12K Gold Filled construction with U.S. patent
2097055, anchoring production firmly in the 1940s.

Specifications

• Reference: PAT. 2097055 U.S.A. (caseback stamped)
• Movement: Manual wind, Swiss lever escapement, est. 17 jewels
• Case: 1/20 12K Gold Filled tonneau; snap-back caseback
• Dial: Silver/white, Art Deco stepped chapter ring, Arabic numerals, baton indices, sub-seconds at 6 o’clock, “SHOCKPROOF” text
• Bezel: Integrated gold-filled stepped bezel, fixed
• Bracelet/Strap: Black leather (130–165 mm; fits approx. 5.1″–6.5″ wrist) + original gold-tone expansion bracelet included
• Crystal: Mineral glass; notable surface scratches visible, replacement recommended
• Water Resistance: None rated — vintage dress watch, keep dry
• Case Size: Est. 38 mm × 25 mm
• Lug Width: Est. 16 mm
• Origin: USA (case/brand); movement Swiss

Condition

Good vintage overall. The case retains its gold-filled surfaces with age-appropriate wear and
light brassing at high-contact points. The dial shows honest patina consistent with 80+ years
of age — silvering intact, original print legible, minor hairline aging. Crystal carries visible
surface scratches and should be considered for replacement (standard watch-glass service).
Movement runs; timing accuracy unverified — service recommended for daily wear. Both straps
are presentable and functional.

Wrist Size Guidance

The included leather strap measures 130 mm to 165 mm, accommodating wrists from approximately
5.1″ to 6.5″ — ideal for small to medium wrists. The original expansion bracelet provides
additional fit flexibility.

Includes

Watch only — on black leather strap, with original gold-tone expansion bracelet included.
No box or papers.t.

Collector Note

⚠ This watch is of pre-1968 American manufacture. Visual inspection does not indicate luminous
lume compound on hands or indices; however, if the movement or hands have been replaced or
refinished, confirm lume status before handling extensively.