Benrus
New York, USA · Est. 1921
Founded by Benjamin Lazrus, Ralph Lazrus, Oscar Lazrus
Benrus is an American watch brand founded in 1921 by Benjamin Lazrus in New York, known for supplying watches to the US military during World War II and subsequent conflicts. The Type I and Type II military watches became legendary among collectors, and the brand has been revived to celebrate this heritage.
- Founded
- 1921
- Headquarters
- New York, USA
- Group
- Independent
- Price Segment
- Entry
- Status
- Revived
Key Collections
- Type I — Military reissue of the MIL-W-46374 specification watch, faithful to the original US military contract design.
- Type II — Dive watch revival based on the original US Navy diver specification, with robust tool-watch aesthetics.
- Classic — Vintage-inspired dress watches recalling Benrus's mid-century American watchmaking heritage.
Timeline
- 1921 — Benjamin, Ralph, and Oscar Lazrus found Benrus Watch Company in New York City.
- 1964 — Awarded US military contract for the MIL-W-46374 field watch — later known as the 'Vietnam watch' — worn by thousands of soldiers.
- 1970 — Type II dive watch supplied to US Navy Special Forces and UDT/SEAL teams.
- 1977 — Company sold; original Benrus ceases operations.
- 2019 — Brand revived with reissues of the iconic Type I and Type II military watches.
Frequently Asked Questions about Benrus
- What is the Benrus 'Vietnam watch'?
- The DTU-2A/P (Type I), built to MIL-W-46374 specs, was the standard US military field watch during the Vietnam War — one of the most iconic military timepieces ever produced.
- Is Benrus still making watches?
- Yes, the brand was revived in 2019 with faithful reissues of the Type I and Type II military watches, honouring the original specifications.