Gold and Enamel French Verge Pocket Watch, c. 1790

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

The GOLD AND ENAMEL FRENCH VERGE POCKET WATCH, Circa 1790, is a stunning testament to the artistry and precision of late 18th-century French watchmaking. This exquisite timepiece is encased in a luxurious gold and enamel consular case, reflecting the opulence and elegance of its era. The watch boasts a full plate gilt fusee movement, a hallmark of superior craftsmanship, with a bridge cock that is intricately pierced and engraved, featuring a steel coqueret. Its balance wheel, with three gilded arms and a plain finish, is complemented by a blue steel spiral hairspring, ensuring accurate timekeeping. The silver regulator dial, equipped with a blue steel indicator, allows for precise adjustments, enhancing the watch’s functionality. The timepiece is wound through a signed white enamel dial, which elegantly displays both Roman and Arabic numerals, and is adorned with a delicate diamond-set design. The dial is further accentuated by a pair of pierced silver hands, adding to its refined aesthetic. The gold consular case is a masterpiece in itself, embellished with a captivating pattern of green, red, and white enamel flowers on the bezels, and a matching floral motif at the center of the back. This is surrounded by a wide border of translucent pale blue enamel over an engine-turned ground, adorned with white faux enamel pearls. A round gold pendant, crowned by a single diamond, adds an additional touch of sophistication to this remarkable watch. Signed by Barbier le Jeune Paris, this pocket watch, with a diameter of 39 mm, is not just a timekeeping device but a piece of history, exemplifying the exquisite artistry and craftsmanship that defined French watchmaking at the end of the 18th century. This late 18th Century French verge timepiece showcases exquisite craftsmanship and design. Encased in a striking gold and enamel consular case, the watch features a full plate gilt fusee movement. The bridge cock is intricately pierced and engraved, adorned with a steel coqueret. The balance wheel, consisting of three arms, is gilded with a plain finish and boasts a blue steel spiral hairspring. A silver regulator dial, displaying a blue steel indicator, allows for precise timekeeping adjustments. The watch is wound through a signed white enamel dial, featuring both Roman and Arabic numerals. The dial is enhanced by a delicate diamond-set design and complemented by a pair of pierced silver hands. The consular case is made of gold and adorned with a captivating pattern of green, red, and white enamel flowers on the bezels. The center of the back also showcases the same floral motif, surrounded by a wide border of translucent pale blue enamel over an engine turned ground. This border is further adorned with white faux enamel pearls. A round gold pendant, crowned by a single diamond, adds a touch of elegance to the watch. This remarkable timepiece exemplifies the exquisite artistry and craftsmanship of late 18th Century French watchmaking. Signed Barbier le Jeune Paris Circa 1790 Diameter 39 mm