Smiths DeLuxe A404 (1950’s)

I recently purchased a Smiths A404 from the mid-1950s in absolute MINT condition. I have rarely seen such a beautiful dial and it’s running pretty well given its age!

The person I bought it from said his dad got it ages ago at an auction and it sat in a drawer for decades. It wasn’t running but just needed a services. Absolute beauty.

For reference, Smiths is an English brand that got some recognition back in the 1950’s as it was on the wrist of Sir Edmund Hillary when he climbed the Mt Everest. He was also reportedly “carrying” a Rolex at this time, which eventually led to the creation of the explorer range.

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Oh wow, this is a great find, congratulation!

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I know someone who'll approve of this...

@Porthole

It is a lovely watch

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Score!!!

Emulate the Spanish football tv presenter hyping a goal

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Wow that's a great find, these out of the sock draw watches sre the best way to get into vintage!

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Absolutely lovely - vintage Smiths are a personal favourite of mine, this is a lovely example.

I have an A408, which needs a service (currently in the drawer), and this A258’whicj seems to be growing on me. I have a couple of Astrals which are quite nice.

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Porthole

Absolutely lovely - vintage Smiths are a personal favourite of mine, this is a lovely example.

I have an A408, which needs a service (currently in the drawer), and this A258’whicj seems to be growing on me. I have a couple of Astrals which are quite nice.

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Seems like we have the same one! Smiths have also be a personal favorite - they can be quite affordable andc easy to find in the UK

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BertyB

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Seems like we have the same one! Smiths have also be a personal favorite - they can be quite affordable andc easy to find in the UK

Actually, the more I think about it mine might be an A504… it’s the gold cased, non-Denison cased version of the A408. The dial and movement are identical. Regardless, it’s out of action right now.

I love my Astral with the random numerals, this numeral style did feature on Everest branded models towards the end of the run.

My weathered A258, which I did call an ugly duckling, is the current daily. It’s been on the wrist since the other one died. It’s grown on me quite substantially.

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I think I know where Farer got some of their inspiration from.

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Porthole

Absolutely lovely - vintage Smiths are a personal favourite of mine, this is a lovely example.

I have an A408, which needs a service (currently in the drawer), and this A258’whicj seems to be growing on me. I have a couple of Astrals which are quite nice.

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Ooh, I love that linen dial on your first Astral. I better back away. I've been vintage hunting this morning.

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Amazing condition!

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Stunning dial !!

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Great find in great condition, congrats!

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Wow 🤩