Benrus Type 1 Class A 1972 Issue

Photos by H. Seung

This is a Benrus Type 1 that belongs to a friend of mine. Just had its Benrus signed 17 jewels automatic movement overhauled along with new crystal, metal O-ring gasket, and crown installed. It is one of the earliest model I have encountered to date as it is marked December of 1972. I guess you can claim this watch to be a real Benrus dive watch issued during the Vietnam War.

Interestingly, this watch is missing the stamped markings for serial number, type, and class. I've compared various Benrus dive watches and there seems to be no correlation between the serial number and the year on the caseback. My guess is that the serial numbers were stamped later on long after being issued. This one apparently was never stamped. Anyway, enjoy the photos (and click them for detailed view)!