Gem Set Gold French Quarter Repeating Verge, c. 1780

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

The GEM SET GOLD FRENCH QUARTER REPEATING VERGE from circa 1780 is a remarkable testament to the artistry and innovation of late 18th-century French horology. This luxurious pocket watch is a masterpiece of both form and function, featuring a quarter repeating mechanism housed within an opulent three-colour gold consular case. The intricate design is powered by a full plate gilt fusee movement, showcasing a finely pierced and engraved bridge cock, a plain three-arm gilt balance, and a blue steel spiral hairspring, all of which contribute to its precision and elegance. The timepiece is further enhanced by a silver regulator dial with a blue steel indicator, exuding sophistication and style. The watch’s winding mechanism is ingeniously integrated through the white enamel dial, which is beautifully embellished with Arabic numerals and decorative stone-set hands. Its push pendant quarter repeating feature is a marvel of engineering, chiming melodiously on a bell nestled within the case. The case itself is a work of art, crafted from three-colour gold and adorned with a captivating oval garden scene on the back, depicting a whimsical tableau of a dog barking at a bird. The front bezel is equally enchanting, with applied gold accents and a single row of white stones, thoughtfully pierced to allow the bell’s sound to resonate clearly. Additionally, the watch includes an “a toc” button on the front bezel and a slide beneath for dumb repeat functionality, highlighting its intricate design and functional sophistication. Signed by the esteemed Gilbert a Paris, this pocket watch, with a diameter of 39 mm and a depth of 9 mm, is not just a timekeeping device but a true work of art, exemplifying the exquisite craftsmanship and detailed artistry that define the era’s finest horological creations. This exquisite late 18th Century French pocket watch features a quarter repeating mechanism and a gem set three-colour gold consular case. The watch is powered by a full plate gilt fusee movement with a finely pierced and engraved bridge cock, as well as a plain three-arm gilt balance and a blue steel spiral hairspring. The silver regulator dial with a blue steel indicator adds a touch of elegance to the timepiece. The watch can be wound through the white enamel dial, which is adorned with Arabic numerals and decorative stone-set hands. It also has a push pendant quarter repeating feature, which chimes on a bell housed within the case. Speaking of the case, it is made of three-colour gold and features a stunning oval garden scene on the back. The scene depicts a dog barking at a bird, adding a touch of whimsy to the overall design. The front bezel of the case is decorated with applied gold accents and set with a single row of white stones. The case is thoughtfully pierced to allow the bell to sound clearly, and it also features an “a toc” button on the front bezel and a slide beneath for dumb repeat functionality. Overall, this late 18th Century French pocket watch is a true work of art, combining exquisite craftsmanship with intricate detailing and functional features. Signed Gilbert a Paris Circa 1780 Diameter 39 mm Depth 9 mm