Introducing: Duckworth Prestex Watches – Revival of a Historic British Brand
Introducing Duckworth Prestex Watches – landing today on watchspecialists.com. Although the name sounds new, in fact in goes back almost 100 years in the history of watchmaking.
A Brand Reborn
Neil Duckworth, the founder of Duckworth Prestex Watches, is a well-known figure in the UK watch industry. Famous for bringing TAG-Heuer to the UK in the 1980s, his family firm, Prestons, has its roots in Bolton. Founded in 1869 by Neil’s grandfather, Frank Duckworth, Prestons Jewellers started making their own watches in the 1920s. The watches were sold under the name PRESTEX. They included chronographs, pocket watches and some stunning dress watches. These were sold all over the world. However, from the late 1940s, Prestons started selling more and more Swiss brands such as Omega and Rolex. Consequently, by the 1960s the home-grown Prestex brand had been quietly discontinued.
Today, Neil is realising a long-held ambition to revive his family’s brand. Now with the name Duckworth Prestex, the English designed watches take their inspiration from the original Prestex models that came before them.
Collection
There are two watches on sale initially: a quartz chronograph and an automatic. Each comes in three colours: green, blue and black for the chronograph. Also, blue, black and orange for the automatic – called a Verimatic – with its distinctive fumé dials.
It’s clear to see the heritage of the two designs and why they embody the Prestex DNA.
Verimatic
Firstly, the Verimatic has a 39mm cushion-shape case. Beautifully finished, it’s a size that will suit any wrist. The arabic numerals and minute track give the watch a classical feel. However, the vibrant blue and orange colours bring the watch right up to date. Also, the fumé dial is very elegant and pairs well with the Italian suede leather chosen for the straps. Inside the watch, a Japanese Miyota 9039 movement provides reliability.
Chronograph
The Chronograph has a sporty 42mm case. Also equipped with a Japanese Miyota movement, this movement is the quartz 6S21. Dials are in a sunburst finish in black, green or blue. The Chronograph has a Horween leather strap. However, there are a range of alternative colours available including NATO straps. View the full collection of straps here.
Watch Specialists
Browse our selection of Duckworth Prestex watches, available from our Independent Watch Specialists. Authorised Dealers, all watches come with a full Two Year Warranty and offer of free gift wrapping. Every sale through watchspecialists.com supports a family owned, UK tax-paying business. Support the High Street and shop with us today!
Photo credits: Duckworth Prestex
