Early Single Handed Alarm

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

Step back in time with the Early Single Handed Alarm – C1700, a remarkable piece of horological history that captures the essence of 18th-century craftsmanship. This exquisite verge alarm pocket watch is not just a timekeeper but a work of art, encased in a silver case adorned with unique decorations that reflect the elegance of its era. Its distinctive single hand design offers a glimpse into the past, where time was measured with a different rhythm. The watch’s top plate layout is intriguingly designed, showcasing the intricate artistry of its creators. At the heart of this timepiece lies a gilt verge alarm movement, a testament to the meticulous engineering of the period. The movement is adorned with a beautifully engraved and pierced plate, complemented by a balance bridge that adds to its aesthetic appeal. Featuring a four-spoke balance wheel and an engraved alarm barrel, this watch is a symphony of precision and beauty. The small silver regulator disk and five Egyptian pillars further enhance its allure, making it a collector’s dream. The steel alarm mechanism, a marvel of its time, strikes with precision, ensuring that this pocket watch is not only a historical artifact but also a functional piece of history. This verge alarm pocket watch features a single hand and comes in a silver case with unique decorations and an interesting layout of the top plate. The movement is a gilt verge alarm movement with a beautifully engraved and pierced plate and balance bridge. It has a four spoke balance wheel, engraved alarm barrel, small silver regulator disk, and five Egyptian pillars. The steel alarm mechanism strikes the bell with a double hammer. The movement is signed by Daniel Mauris (or Mavris). It has two winding arbors, one for the fusee and the other for the alarm strike barrel. The movement is in good condition, complete and original, apart from a missing pillar tip at 5. It is running well and the alarm functions correctly. The dial is made of fine enamel with a central silver alarm disk. It is in reasonable condition but has some chips around the winding apertures and the catch at 6, as well as hairlines across the chapter at 9 and 11. There is also some light damage on the edge at 1 and 8. The single hand, which is attached to the alarm disk, can be set by turning the disk clockwise using the small stud at 6. The alarm is set by turning the central arbor clockwise until the central pointer indicates the desired alarm time on the disk. The silver case has a pierced and engraved gallery. The pendant and bow are replacements, likely from the late 18th century. Under the bell, there are some rubbed silver marks, including a possible maker’s mark *JQ?. The case is in nice condition with only a small bump on the back and some minor damage to the bezel at 3. The high dome crystal is intact. The hinge is good, but the bezel doesn’t snap shut as it is slightly distorted. The bell, which is screwed to the inside, is in good condition with no damage or repairs. The watch is likely of Swiss origin, possibly from Geneva. The unusual balance bridge with wide “D” shaped feet suggests a Dutch influence. While there is no known Daniel Mauris (or Mauvis) listed, there was a renowned case maker named Jacques Mauris working in Geneva during the early 18th century. It is possible that this watch was made by a member of his family. Daniel Mauris Place of Origin: Swiss Period: c1700 Silver case, 55.75 mm. Verge, alarm movement Condition: Good