Introducing The American Brand Benrus Unveils the 3061 GT

Benrus is a historic American watch company founded in 1921 in New York City by Romanian-American brothers Benjamin, Oscar, and Ralph Lazrus. The brand's name is a blend of “Ben” from Benjamin and “rus” from the family surname. Originally launched as a watch repair business, Benrus quickly transitioned into manufacturing, assembling watches fitted with Swiss movements imported from La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. By 1923, the company had established its headquarters in the Hippodrome building on Sixth Avenue, in the heart of Manhattan’s jewelry district.

Benrus rose to prominence for its robust, military-grade timepieces worn by U.S. soldiers during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Iconic models such as the Sky Chief chronograph and the Type I dive watch became staples among both servicemen and civilians. The brand also enjoyed celebrity appeal, with endorsements from notable figures like Charles Lindbergh and Babe Ruth.

After facing difficulties during the quartz crisis of the 1970s, Benrus underwent several ownership changes and fell into dormancy. In 2017, the brand was acquired by Benrus Holdings, LLC, an affiliate of New England Partners Opportunities Fund, with the aim of reviving its storied legacy. By 2020, Benrus relaunched with a focus on heritage-inspired designs, once again establishing its headquarters in the historic Hippodrome building where its journey began nearly a century earlier. Today, Benrus continues to honor its roots, producing timepieces that blend classic American design with modern craftsmanship.

Unveiled at the Windup Watch Fair in San Francisco, the brand-new BENRUS #3061 GT field watch fuses classic styling with contemporary performance. Inspired by the 1968 Benrus model famously worn by Steve McQueen, the 3061 GT tells a compelling story through carefully curated details.

Crafted from 316L stainless steel, the case measures 39.5 mm in diameter and 9.95 mm in thickness, striking a refined balance between brushed and polished finishes. A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating on both sides ensures excellent legibility while protecting against scratches. The watch is water-resistant to 100 meters, making it as functional as it is stylish.

Its Highland Green dial pays homage to the Ford Mustang GT Fastback’s signature hue, while a textured surface evokes the structured grid of San Francisco’s urban landscape. A standout feature is the California dial, marking a first for Benrus which combines Roman numerals on the upper half with Arabic numerals on the lower half, and introduces 24-hour ton-sur-ton numerals for a modern yet nostalgic touch. 

Even the second hand is a nod to the past, modeled after the speedometer needle of the 1968 Mustang GT featured in the film ‘’Bullitt’’, reinforcing the watch’s cinematic and automotive roots.

Powering the 3061 GT is the Swiss-made automatic ETA 2892 movement, visible through the sapphire crystal case back. Beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4Hz), it delivers a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. 

The watch is paired with an orange leather strap secured by a stainless steel pin buckle, and is priced at $1,800 USD (approximately 6,600 AED).

For more information visit Benrus official website.