Vintage 1960s Benrus Competition 17 Jewel Racing Watch - Exhibition Back

Race into the 1960s with this authentic Benrus Competition!

Imagine the roar of engines and the thrill of the checkered flag every time you glance at your wrist. This stunning 1960s Benrus “Competition” mechanical wristwatch captures pure vintage racing spirit with its bold dual checkered-flag logo, crisp “COMPETITION” lettering, and classic “SHOCK-ABSORBER 17 JEWELS” script. The sunburst silver dial, bold dagger hands, and exhibition case back that proudly displays the running 17-jewel movement make this far more than a timepiece — it’s a wearable piece of automotive history.

Whether you’re a serious collector of Benrus watches, a fan of 1960s racing memorabilia, or simply hunting that perfect conversation-starting vintage daily wearer, this watch delivers. The open “thru crystals” case back (engraved 9021/9045) lets you admire the intricate gears and jewels in real time — a feature rarely found on these models and highly prized today.

In-Depth Specs & Features • Brand & Model: Benrus Competition (1960s racing series) • Movement: Genuine 17-jewel manual-wind (Qualco-style caliber, signed MODEL variant) – complete and ready for service • Case: Base metal, marked “WATER PROOF – SHOCK ABSORBING – BASE METAL” around the exhibition back • Dial: Silver sunburst with dual black-and-white checkered racing flags, “COMPETITION” above center, “SHOCK-ABSORBER 17 JEWELS” below • Hands: Bold black dagger hour/minute with luminous accents (patina present) • Size: 34-36 mm case diameter (measured to crown), approximately 40 mm lug-to-lug – perfect vintage proportion • Crystal: Domed acrylic (shows honest age scratches and light haze – easily polished or replaced) • Crown: Signed Benrus-style push-pull • Lugs: Standard 18 mm (no strap included – add your favorite NATO or leather racing strap) • Condition: Honest vintage wear – dial shows light patina and spotting consistent with age, case has surface scratches and honest patina, movement complete with visible ruby jewels. Crystal has typical vintage scratches. Runs when wound in photos but we recommend professional cleaning and regulation for long-term accuracy (common for 60-year-old watches).

Every detail screams 1960s cool: the racing flags, the visible heartbeat of the movement, the rugged base-metal case built for the track. This exact configuration with the open-back engraving is documented in Benrus archives and collector forums as one of the coolest “Competition” variants produced.

Why This Item Belongs in Your Life Picture this watch on your wrist at Cars & Coffee, paired with a vintage leather jacket, or displayed on your desk as a daily reminder that real style never goes out of fashion. It’s not just a watch — it’s an investment in vanishing 1960s American watchmaking heritage. As quartz watches took over, these mechanical Benrus Competition models became scarcer every year. The exhibition back makes it a mechanical masterpiece you can actually see working.

Collectors and enthusiasts are snapping up these pieces because they combine rarity, affordability, and pure character. This is your chance to own a genuine piece of Benrus racing history before prices climb even higher.

Care, Shipping, & Practical Tips Keep your Benrus Competition running strong with a simple annual service (any reputable watchmaker can handle it). Wipe the case with a soft cloth; avoid water despite the “water proof” marking — it’s vintage! We ship worldwide in protective packaging with tracking and insurance. U.S. buyers enjoy fast Priority Mail; international buyers please check rates at checkout.

Act Now: FAQs & Final Urge Q: Does it run? A: Movement is complete and winds smoothly; we recommend service for best accuracy. Q: Is it signed Benrus on the dial? A: No — authentic to the Competition line (name is on the movement/case). Q: Any strap? A: No — choose your own 18 mm racing-style strap to personalize!

Don’t let this checkered-flag classic cross the finish line without you. These exact open-back Competition models rarely surface in this condition. Buy it now or use Buy It Now and secure this piece of 1960s racing heritage before it’s gone forever.

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 _gsrx_vers_1730 (GS 9.9.4 (1730))

 _gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))

Condition: For parts or not working

Item specifics

From The Spiderpunk Web collection of authentic antiques and collectibles. Ships from the United States with tracking.