Pre-owned Benrus watches

Benrus is a legendary American watch brand founded in 1921 in New York City by the Lazrus brothers, three Swiss immigrants passionate about watchmaking. By blending European technical expertise with an American industrial vision, the brand quickly became a major player in the market for quality, durable, and affordable watches.

Starting in the 1940s, Benrus became a trusted supplier to the U.S. military. World War II marked a turning point for the company, particularly with the production of military watches like the Benrus DTU-2A/P, developed under strict military specifications: optimal legibility, shock resistance, and reliability in extreme environments. This model became a staple of U.S. military gear, used extensively through the Vietnam War era.

In the 1950s, Benrus expanded its offerings with elegant and innovative civilian timepieces. The Sky Chief chronograph, favored by both commercial and military pilots, emerged as a benchmark in aviation watches—on par with Breitling's Navitimer. During the same decade, Benrus also introduced the Dial-O-Rama, a futuristic automatic watch with rotating disk displays, perfectly aligned with the aesthetics of the Atomic Age.

Throughout the 1960s, Benrus continued to diversify its lineup with diving models like the Ultra-Deep, engineered to withstand extreme conditions. These designs showcased Benrus's ability to merge military-grade functionality with civilian style, attracting a broad audience. However, the quartz revolution of the late '60s ushered in a difficult period for many American brands, including Benrus.

After several attempts at revival, Benrus found renewed life in the 2000s, spurred by growing interest in vintage military watches. The brand began reissuing its iconic models with great fidelity, preserving their historic charm while incorporating modern materials. Today, Benrus appeals to collectors and watch enthusiasts drawn to pieces with authentic heritage and bold character.

At Mostra Store in Aix-en-Provence, we proudly showcase this American legacy with a carefully curated selection of pre-owned Benrus watches. Each timepiece is authenticated and serviced by our in-house watchmakers, ensuring reliability and historical value. Choosing a vintage Benrus at Mostra means acquiring a unique timepiece—one that bears witness to a time when watchmaking served precision, purpose, and commitment.