Bravingtons History
Bravingtons was a renowned London-based jeweler and goldsmith, famed for its watches, clocks, and fine goods.
Early Beginnings (1860s):
The story of Bravingtons began in the early 1860s when Thomas Bravington opened a pawnbroker’s shop at 208 Pentonville Road. This modest start laid the foundation for a brand that would thrive for more than a century.
World War I Era:
During World War I, Bravingtons became a key supplier of trench watches, providing practical and essential timepieces for soldiers at the front.
Interwar Period:
Between the wars, Bravingtons solidified its reputation as a leading jeweler and goldsmith in London, offering high-quality craftsmanship and a growing range of timepieces.
World War II and Its Aftermath:
Bravingtons played a significant role during World War II, selling watches to young soldiers preparing for service. After the war, the company gained further renown by making decommissioned British military watches available to civilians, ensuring access to durable and reliable timepieces.
The Renown Watches:
One of Bravingtons’ most celebrated contributions was its “Renown” watch line. Although the trademark was officially registered in 1955, the company had been producing these popular watches for years prior. Renown watches showcased the expertise and quality for which Bravingtons was known.
Swiss Movements and Dennison Cases:
To create their timepieces, Bravingtons collaborated with top manufacturers. They imported Swiss movements from companies like Fabrique d’Horlogerie de Fontainemelon (FHF) and paired them with robust watch cases from Dennison & Co, ensuring both precision and durability.
Expanding Across London:
Bravingtons grew beyond its Pentonville Road beginnings, establishing branches in prominent locations such as the Strand and Charing Cross, becoming a household name in London.
Legacy:
Though Bravingtons no longer exists, its impact endures. Over its lifetime, the company is estimated to have sold tens of thousands of watches, leaving a lasting mark on London’s watchmaking and jewelry history
Overview
Case and Strap
- Stainless steel case
- Matching stainless steel crown
- Matching stainless caseback
- New stock 18mm genuine leather strap
Dimensions:
- Width w/o crown: 44.5mm
- Width w/ crown: 35.5mm
- Height: 41.5mm
- Thickness: 8mm
- Strap width: 18mm
Dial and Hands
- Clean white dial
- Arabic style numerals and 12, 3 , 9 and 9
- Unique pointed indices
- Similar styled hour and minute hands
- ‘Bravingtons’ printed text
- Red seconds hand
Movement
- ETA 2370
Testing results:
- Testing duration: 2 week cyclic test
- Average timekeeping range: 20 -40 sec/day
Servicing and Guarantee
- Fully serviced.
- Mechanics in full working order.
- Care and usage guidelines.
