Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a mid-20th-century ladies' automatic wristwatch by Benrus featuring the distinctive 'Three Star' crest and a gold-plated case. Fitted with luminous syringe hands, applied mid-century numerals, and a period stretch-expansion bracelet, it represents early compact self-winding horology for women.
Story
In the 1950s, cramming a self-winding rotor mechanism into a tiny ladies' cocktail watch was an engineering feat. Benrus made luxury technology wearable for everyday working women.
Maker / Origin
Founded in New York in 1921 by three brothers—Benjamin, Ralph, and Oscar Lazrus—the company name 'BENRUS' was a portmanteau of 'Benjamin Lazrus'. Benrus imported quality Swiss movements and cased them in the United States, becoming one of America's big three watchmakers alongside Bulova and Hamilton.
Condition & Value
The dial displays heavy vintage patina and spotting (tropicalization/aging), with light scratching across the acrylic crystal and wear to the gold plating on high-contact edges. As shown on the timegrapher app, the mechanical movement is currently running. The dial wear reduces value compared to mint examples.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.