1990s Dunhill Centenary Yellow Gold Octagon 100th Anniversary

History and Significance

Alfred Dunhill's history began in London in 1893, long before the company became associated with fine wristwatches. Originally established as a saddlery business, Dunhill evolved into one of Britain's most recognizable luxury houses, developing a reputation for beautifully made accessories, writing instruments, and objects designed around the lifestyle of the modern gentleman. By the twentieth century, the company had become particularly celebrated for its ability to combine practical objects with imaginative design. Watches eventually became another expression of that philosophy, often incorporating unusual case shapes and architectural details that distinguished them from conventional Swiss dress watches. The Centenary Octagon is a particularly interesting example, created to commemorate the company's hundredth anniversary.

The Centenary collection represents an interesting intersection between British design and traditional Swiss watchmaking. Rather than producing a conventional round dress watch to celebrate the anniversary, Dunhill adopted a striking geometric case that draws upon the decorative traditions of the early twentieth century. The octagonal construction immediately recalls the influence of Art Deco, a movement that embraced symmetry, angular forms, and the relationship between architecture and decorative objects. These influences were particularly important in the development of early wristwatches, when manufacturers were still experimenting with alternatives to the familiar round pocket watch case. The Centenary Octagon revisits that period with a design that feels deliberately historical without simply reproducing an existing vintage watch.

The case is undoubtedly the defining feature of the watch. Its elongated octagonal shape combines sharply defined angles with a relatively narrow central dial, creating a silhouette that feels closer to a piece of fine jewelry than a conventional wristwatch. The broad gold surfaces surrounding the dial emphasize the unusual architecture, while the stepped transitions between the different sections of the case introduce additional depth. At 28mm by 40mm, the proportions give the watch a substantial presence despite its relatively narrow width. The result is a design that makes particularly effective use of its precious metal construction, allowing the shape and finishing of the case to become as important as the time display itself.

Writer’s Thoughts

There is a certain category of vintage and neo-vintage dress watches that feels more closely related to jewelry and industrial design than conventional horology. The Dunhill Centenary belongs firmly in that category. The case has an extraordinary amount of personality, with its elongated shape, sharp angles, and broad gold surfaces creating a silhouette that immediately stands apart from traditional round watches. What makes the design particularly successful is that the geometry never feels excessive. Every angle contributes to the overall appearance, giving the watch a sense of purpose that can be difficult to achieve with such an unconventional shape. The result is something that feels equally appropriate alongside a collection of fine watches or beautifully designed objects from the Art Deco period.

Our Promise

Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity.

Brand: Dunhill

Model: Centenary Octagon 

Reference: NA

Year: 1990s

Case Material: 18k Yellow Gold

Case Size: 27mm x 40mm

Dial: Cream Dial

Movement: Caliber 750, Manual Wind

Strap/Buckle: New H.C. Leather Strap

Buckle/Clasp: Original Dunhill Gold Buckle

Contents: Watch only

Case: Yellow gold case shows light surface wear consistent with age and use. The case retains its attractive octagonal shape and well-defined edges.

Dial: Cream dial remains in excellent condition with well-preserved printing and an attractive overall finish.

Hands: Hands remain in good condition with light signs of aging.

Crystal: Crystal remains in good condition with light surface wear consistent with use.

Strap/Buckle: Newly fitted H.C. leather strap is in excellent condition.

Buckle/Clasp: Original Dunhill gold buckle remains in good condition with light surface wear.

Notes: Watch has recently been serviced.