Mappin & Webb?

[We have all the time]

Hi, I'm a fairly new member and was wondering about a watch I just bought for my wife. It was sold as a Mappin & Webb watch, and I was wondering if anyone knew anything about them? (I know Mappin & Webb as a fairly high class Jeweller, but wasn't aware of them making watches themselves).



(I haven't been able to open it to get a photo of the movement, before anyone asks). It has the Mappin & Webb name etched on the back of the case & stamped on the strap (as well as being on the face of the watch)- on the one hand, I'm curious whether Mappin & Webb did actually manufacture any watches, or whether this is a fake, on the other hand it would strike me as odd to fake a brand that is not necessarily known for its watches?

Anyway, any information would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance

[GinGinD]

Mappin and Webb is unlikely to have manufactured it. Generally what you see with a watch like this is a situation where the jeweler is contracting a watchmaker to provide them with watches branded with the jeweler's name. I know you don't want to hear this, but a look inside might give us more info as to who actually made the watch.

Its always possible I'm wrong (just don't tell my husband I said that!), but I doubt it.


Jeannie

[We have all the time]

Thanks for that- I don't have a problem with M&W not actually having manufactured it themselves (well, given that the watch claims to be Swiss made & Mappin & Webb are in London, that would have been rather an obvious giveaway... ;) ) but I was wondering whether they did actually sell any M&W branded watches. (& I don't think I'll be able to get it from my wife to examine it, so opening it up might be difficult...).

[coastcat]

It used to be fairly common that a watch manufacturer would create a "house brand" (for lack of a better description) to be sold under the name of a jewelry or department store. It's like a consumer products company repackaging some of its product as store brands.

Why not contact Mappin & Webb to ask about the watch? They might be able to tell you about the movement and history.

[pfrien]

I have a Mappin mens stainless steel watch left to me by my English father. I opened the back and was surprised to see an Audemars movement. I think Audemars is quite a good movement. Does anyone have any knowledge of whether or not this helps the value and justifies my servicing the watch. It still works and must be at least 40 years old.

[GinGinD]

I have a Mappin mens stainless steel watch left to me by my English father. I opened the back and was surprised to see an Audemars movement. I think Audemars is quite a good movement. Does anyone have any knowledge of whether or not this helps the value and justifies my servicing the watch. It still works and must be at least 40 years old.

That's likely a pretty nice movement, yes, but the fact that it belonged to your father is sufficient IMO to justify a service. I adore heirloom watches.

Jeannie

[pfrien]

Thanks. I always thought it was a regular watch until I opened the back. It had not been opened in 20 years. I think I will get it serviced. I now need to find a reputable service shop in Toronto.

[GinGinD]

My father passed away in 2008. I wear his watch regularly and have it on today in fact.

Jeannie