Benrus is making a bold return with reissues of its signature military timepieces alongside modern interpretations designed for today’s adventurers.
Founded in Manhattan in 1921 and quickly becoming known for its battlefield-proven durability, Benrus watches have been worn by US soldiers, elite special forces, and even Hollywood icons like Steve McQueen.
Among its most anticipated reissues is the DTU-2A/P, the Vietnam-era field watch that met the US Department of Defense’s stringent MIL-W-3818B specifications. The 2025 version retains the classic 34mm sandblasted stainless steel case, a hacking ETA 2671 movement, and the original sterile black dial with a 12/24-hour format.
The Type 1 and Type 2, originally issued to Navy SEALs and Green Berets in the 1970s, return in 39.5mm cases with enhanced 36 ATM water resistance and a refined ETA 2892 movement. Here, the top-loading monocoque case design ensures superior durability, while the non-reflective dial remains true to its covert origins.
Looking ahead, Benrus is developing Project Type 3X, a mission-ready watch engineered in collaboration with US Special Forces veterans. Combining cutting-edge materials and battle-tested design, this high-performance timepiece will embody the rugged spirit that defines the brand.
With the brand also announcing the opening of a new facility in La Chaux-de-Fonds and a team of watch industry veterans behind it – including Michael Sweeney, Vincent Perriard, Darius Solomon, Ion Schiau, and Alain Oppliger – it seems that Benrus is coming back with determination to stay.