Near Perfect English Made Smiths "Astral" 17 Jewel 33mm Gold Plated Watch 1960's

In beautiful condition with a lovely dial with printed batons, and minute track and matching hands.
Just back form a complete service, new crystal, and re-polished case and back - One of the best watches in the world at the time, working and keeping time - The case is 33mmx 40mm.
English made watches with between 15 and 18 jewel movements and high-quality polished escapements, and ex-factory with screw fitted balances. these were advertised as Britain's finest watch. dating from 1951/52.
Only after the second world war – did Smiths begin to manufacture wristwatches – supported by British government finance - to fill the gaping absence of a quality watchmaker in the UK. From 1946-1970 Smiths produced a range of high quality watches from its Cheltenham factory including; the De Luxe, Astral and later the Imperial and Everest ‘range’ of watches. Smiths holds an important part of English horological history as the last English watch company of any size in a world of watches dominated by Swiss, and Japanese manufacturers.