Cabriolet Gold Case Pocket Watch, c. 1870

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

Step back in time with the Cabriolet Gold Case Pocket Watch, a magnificent artifact from the late 19th century that embodies the elegance and craftsmanship of a bygone era. This exquisite timepiece, dating back to circa 1870, is a testament to the artistry and precision of watchmaking during that period. Encased in a rare reversible cabriolet gold hunter pair case, this pocket watch is not only a functional accessory but also a work of art. Its large lever watch mechanism is powered by a keywind gilt bar movement, featuring a suspended going barrel and a polished steel regulator, ensuring accurate timekeeping. The watch’s compensation balance, adorned with a blue steel spiral hairspring, and its club foot lever escapement with a polished steel escape wheel, highlight the meticulous engineering that went into its creation. The pristine white enamel dial, signed “BWCo,” is a visual delight, with Roman numerals, subsidiary seconds, and ornate gilt hands that add a touch of sophistication. What truly distinguishes this pocket watch is its unique and substantial 18-carat cabriolet case, which offers versatility by allowing it to be worn as either a full hunter or an open face watch. The inner gold case is intricately engraved with floral motifs, while the outer case, with its three-section design, provides the option to display either the dial or the back. The engraved back of the inner case, depicting a charming Scottish hunting scene, adds a narrative element to the piece, transforming it into a full hunter when desired. Weighing an impressive 154 grams and boasting a diameter of 60 mm, this pocket watch is a rare find, combining substantial size with elegant design. Signed by Arnold Adams & Co of London, this timepiece is not only a functional marvel but also a collector’s dream, offering a glimpse into the luxurious world of 19th-century horology. Presenting a remarkable timepiece from the late 19th Century – a large lever watch encased in a rare reversible cabriolet gold hunter pair case. This extraordinary watch features a keywind gilt bar movement with a suspended going barrel and a plain cock with a polished steel regulator. Its compensation balance is equipped with a blue steel spiral hairspring, and the escapement boasts a club foot lever and a polished steel escape wheel. The stunning white enamel dial is signed “BWCo” and showcases subsidiary seconds, Roman numerals, and decorative gilt hands. What sets this watch apart is its rare and unique heavy 18 carat cabriolet case, which can be used as either a full hunter or an open face. The inner gold case is beautifully engraved with floral motifs on the back and a plain middle. Winding and setting this timepiece is done through the signed gold cuvette, with a convenient gold button in the pendant to open the back. This inner case can be used alone or placed within the three-section gold outer case, which allows for either the dial or the back to be visible. When the dial is shown, the watch appears to be a traditional open face timepiece, with the engraved back depicting a charming Scottish hunting scene. On the other hand, when the florally engraved back of the inner case is exposed, the watch transforms into a full hunter, with the button in the pendant serving to open the front cover. This watch is quite rare due to its unusually large size and impressive weight of 154 grams in total. It is truly a captivating piece that combines functionality with elegance, making it a true collector’s item. Signed Arnold Adams & Co – London Date of Manufacture: Circa 1870 Diameter : 60 mm Condition: Good