Smiths "Deluxe" 18 Jewel 32mm Gentleman's Gold Plated Watch 1950's

In beautiful condition with a perfect dial, an early 1950's British Made Smiths "Deluxe" Gold Plated Gentleman's watch - Probably the best watch in the world at the time. - The case is 32mmx 38mm deluxe 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.