A & S Railway Gold Minute Repeating Pocket Watch Presented to J.H. Ramsey, 1865

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of horological history with the A & S Railway Gold Minute Repeating Pocket Watch, a magnificent timepiece presented to J.H. Ramsey in 1865. Crafted by the esteemed Emile Peret of Locle, Switzerland, this pocket watch is not merely a device for telling time but a masterful work of art and engineering. Its porcelain dial and meticulously numbered movement and case reflect the precision and care invested in its creation. With a substantial size of 20 L and featuring 10 independent bridges, a moustache lever, and an impressive 28 jewels, this watch stands as a testament to superior craftsmanship. What sets this exquisite piece apart is its highly jewelled repeater mechanism, which includes a unique chime that resonates with a distinct and melodious sound, encapsulating the essence of 19th-century innovation and elegance. This is the history and description of an important and rare minute repeating pocket watch by Emile Peret of Locle, Switzerland, dating back to 1865. The watch has a porcelain dial, movement number 16666, case number 20175, size 20 L, 10 independent bridges, a moustache lever, and 28 jewels. It is a highly jewelled repeater with a unique feature – a chime that sounds like a railway-type bell. This suggests that it may have been privately commissioned to sound this way. The watch has an engraving inside the front cover that reads, “Presented to Hon. JH Ramsey by the stockholders of the Albany Susquehanna Railway Co. 1865.” The watch belonged to the Hon. Joseph H Ramsey, a successful businessman and lawyer, who was one of the most successful students of Jedediah Miller. Ramsey is credited for his persistence in completing the Albany to Susquehanna Railway in the 1860s, which opened up an entire county previously accessible only by foot and horse traffic. He was presented with this watch by the railway shareholders in 1865 after being elected president of the railway. This watch is a testament to Ramsey’s achievements and his contribution to the railway industry. Ramsey’s political ambitions were evident from his association with Jedediah Miller. He became a member of the New York State Assembly in 1855 and was elected to the New York State Senate in 1856 and 1857. During his time in the Senate, Ramsey secured funding for the construction of the Albany and Susquehanna Railway by offering stock to the towns that bordered the future railway line. For his efforts, he was elected president of the A&S Railway in 1865, and it was at this time that he was presented with this pocket watch by the railway shareholders. The watch was restored by Vicovanu Antiques Restorers and runs well, keeping good time. The watch is an important piece of history and is typically reserved for auction houses. It is a unique piece that represents the achievements of Hon. Joseph H Ramsey and his contribution to the railway industry. Creator: Emile Peret Case Material: 18k Gold,Yellow Gold Style: Victorian Place of Origin: Switzerland Period: Late 19th Century Date of Manufacture: circa 1865 Condition: Good