2.1172 SMITHS JUMP-HOUR ASYMMETRICAL AUTOMATIC OLD-STOCK, SWISS-UK 1970s

A super-rare, large and visually striking Smiths Jump-Hour Automatic from the 1970s, featuring a bold asymmetrical case and a fully mechanical “digital” display with jumping hour and rotating minute disc. Produced during the height of the quartz crisis, this model reflects Smiths’ effort to answer emerging electronic watches with innovative mechanical design.

During the quartz crisis, Smiths – one of Britain’s most historically important watchmakers – experimented with unconventional designs to remain competitive against inexpensive LED and LCD watches. While many Smiths models of the period used simpler manual movements, the automatic jump-hour digital watches represented some of the brand’s most ambitious and technically interesting offerings, combining Swiss engineering with British branding and avant-garde industrial design.

Large, chunky, and unmistakably 1970s, this watch offers strong wrist presence and instant visual impact. Mechanical digital watches remain a niche but highly collectible segment, and NOS examples are exceptionally difficult to find, particularly with automatic movements.

Specifications

• Brand: Smiths
• Era: 1970s
• Movement: AS 2083 automatic jump-hour with date
• Case: Nickel plated, asymmetrical “funky” design
• Caseback: Stainless steel, snap on
• Display: Mechanical digital (jump hour and minute disc)
• Functions: Hours, Minutes, Date
• Strap: Genuine leather (as pictured)

Condition

This watch is new old stock (NOS) and was never worn. It shows minor traces of handling and natural ageing from long-term storage, consistent with its age. Overall presentation remains excellent, with a sharp case profile and clean display windows.

Servicing and Warranty

• Fully serviced with disassembly in our Bristol shop
• Mechanics in full working order
• 12-month movement warranty
• Warranty Terms and Conditions
• No water resistance warranty