Miniature Pearl Set Watch, 1800s

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

The “Miniature Pearl Set Watch – 1800s” is a captivating relic from the late 18th century, embodying the elegance and craftsmanship of its era. This exquisite timepiece is a testament to the artistry of watchmaking, featuring a gold and enamel open face case that is gracefully adorned with delicate pearls, creating a visual masterpiece. Inside, it houses a rare full plate gilt keywind movement, a marvel of engineering, with a resting barrel subtly concealed beneath an intricately engraved cover. The movement itself is a spectacle, showcasing a recessed three-arm gilt balance paired with a striking blue steel spiral hairspring, all nestled under a beautifully crafted sector-shaped cock. The cylinder and escape wheel, both forged from durable steel, ensure the watch’s enduring functionality. Adding to its allure, the watch is wound through a fully restored white enamel dial, proudly bearing the maker’s signature, complemented by Arabic numerals and elegant gold hands that exude sophistication. The small gold case is a work of art, bordered with split pearls and featuring a front bezel that opens with the press of a button located in the rectangular gold and enamel pendant. The back of the case is no less impressive, intricately set with split pearls arranged in an exquisite geometric pattern, making it a true collector’s piece. To safeguard this precious artifact, it comes with a dark green presentation case, ensuring its preservation for generations to come. Signed by Prior and dating back to circa 1800, this watch, with a diameter of 26 mm, is not just a timekeeper but a piece of history, capturing the essence of a bygone era with its timeless beauty and meticulous craftsmanship. This exquisite timepiece is a late 18th Century cylinder watch, featuring a stunning gold and enamel open face case adorned with delicate pearls. The watch houses a rare full plate gilt keywind movement, with a resting barrel elegantly hidden under an engraved cover. The movement showcases a recessed three-arm gilt balance, with a striking blue steel spiral hairspring under a beautifully crafted sector shaped cock. The cylinder and escape wheel are both crafted from durable steel. The watch is wound through a fully restored white enamel dial, which bears the maker’s signature and features Arabic numerals and elegant gold hands. The small gold case of the watch is adorned with a border of split pearls, with a front bezel that can be opened by pressing a button located in the rectangular gold and enamel pendant. The back of the case is intricately set with split pearls, arranged in an exquisite geometric pattern. To ensure its safety and preservation, the watch is accompanied by a dark green presentation case. Signed Prior Circa 1800 Diameter 26 mm