CWC Watches
CWC is an acronym for the Cabot Watch Company and is renowned for their output of exceptional military timepieces. Formed by former Managing Director of Hamilton, Ray Mellor in the 1970s, this company was named after the explorer John Cabot, who voyaged from Bristol to North America in 1497. Founded to continue supplying the Ministry of Defence with timepieces under Mellor's own brand, CWC became the foremost supplier of wristwatches and pocket watches to the military, RAF, and the Navy.
CWC Watches at Auction
CWC wristwatches and pocket watches sell consistently well at auction, with a keen following of militaria and watch collectors.
Top prices go to 1980's Royal Navy diver's watches with uni-directional bezels, equipped with automatic or even quartz movements (those with an automatic 2872 or 2873 calibre movement sell exceptionally well!). Elsewhere, timepieces with subsidiary dials and features associated with their intended usage catch the eye of collectors. CWC watches with broad arrow and numerical markings to the case back help to identify, date, and ultimately these fascinating timepieces. Pieces from the early 1970s production runs also sell exceptionally well under the hammer, as a tangible part of the brand's rich history.
Condition wise, CWC watches with general patina and signs of wear sell well. Whether it be scratches to the glass, losses to luminescent hands, or tarnishing to the case, these indications of wear do not affect perceived value negatively. If you have discovered a CWC timepiece, do get in touch with our team who would be happy to advise you on a current and completely confidential auction valuation.
Contemporary CWC 'reissue' wristwatches and pocket watches, as well as their 'Limited Edition' lines also hold an appeal at auction, and retain a promising resale value under the hammer.
Our specialist Fine Jewellery & Watch auctions are held four times a year and include the whole spectrum of jewellery, from modern and designer pieces to antique jewels, coloured gemstone jewellery to fine diamond rings. Our department is headed by Liz Bailey who is FGA and DGA qualified, with many years experience in the industry. We offer a free watch valuations service as well as a free collection service for items consigned to these auctions.
Contact our qualified specialist Liz Bailey to find out more.
