Gilt Centre Seconds English Cylinder, c. 1790

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

The “GILT CENTRE SECONDS ENGLISH CYLINDER – Circa 1790” is an exquisite testament to the artistry and precision of late 18th-century English horology, encapsulating the elegance and innovation of its time. This remarkable pocket watch, with its center seconds cylinder movement, is encased in a resplendent gilt consular case that speaks to the grandeur of its era. The full plate fire gilt movement is not only signed and numbered but also features a beautifully pierced and engraved masked cock, highlighting a large diamond endstone set in blue steel, which is a striking focal point. Adding to its allure, the silver regulator disc is visible through the intricately pierced dust cover, enhancing its sophisticated design. The watch’s mechanical prowess is evident in its plain three-arm steel balance and blue steel spiral hairspring, complemented by a polished steel cylinder with an original banking pin and an unusually large brass escape wheel. The white enamel dial is a masterpiece in itself, adorned with Roman numerals, a finely detailed seconds track, and elegant gold hands, with the center seconds hand uniquely positioned between the minute and hour hands, offering a distinctive aesthetic. The consular case, crafted from plain gilt metal, combines elegance with functionality, featuring back and front bezels that open on a single hinge with dust-proof shuts to protect the delicate movement. The skillfully cut inner dome reveals the dust cover, which proudly bears the maker’s mark “GMR,” adding both visual intrigue and a slim profile to the watch. In excellent condition, this timepiece showcases meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail, with its unique features such as the large diamond endstone and streamlined case design, making it a true gem from the late 18th century. Signed by Peter Smitton of London, this watch, with a diameter of 53 mm and a depth of 14 mm, stands as a remarkable piece of history and a tribute to the timeless elegance of period horology. This is a stunning late 18th-century English pocket watch, featuring a centre seconds cylinder movement housed in a beautiful gilt consular case. The full plate fire gilt movement is signed and numbered, with a pierced and engraved masked cock that showcases a large diamond endstone in a blue steel setting. The silver regulator disc can be seen through the pierced dust cover, adding an extra touch of elegance. The watch boasts a plain three-arm steel balance and a blue steel spiral hairspring. The polished steel cylinder is fitted with an original banking pin, and the escape wheel is unusually large and made of brass. The white enamel dial showcases Roman numerals, a fine seconds track at the edge, and gold hands. The centre seconds hand is positioned between the minute and hour hands, adding a unique touch to the design. The consular case, made of plain gilt metal, is both elegant and practical. Both the back and front bezels open on the same hinge, with dust-proof shuts ensuring protection for the delicate movement inside. The inner dome has been skillfully cut away to reveal the dust cover, which bears the maker’s mark “GMR”. This design choice not only adds visual interest but also helps keep the watch as slim as possible. Overall, this watch is in excellent condition, with the case demonstrating careful craftsmanship and attention to detail. The combination of the unique features, including the large diamond endstone and the streamlined case design, make this timepiece a true gem from the late 18th century. Signed Peter Smitton London Circa 1790 Diameter 53 mm Depth 14 mm