Paris Ottoman verge Pocket Watch, c. 1790

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

The Paris Ottoman verge Pocket Watch, dating back to circa 1790, is a captivating piece of horological artistry that was meticulously crafted for the Turkish market, embodying the elegance and precision of its era. This exquisite timepiece features a gilt verge movement that is both intricate and visually striking, highlighted by an elaborately engraved and pierced balance bridge, and a large silver regulator disk adorned with Turkish numerals, all supported by four robust round pillars. Despite a few minor scratches and some tarnishing, the movement remains in good condition, with the watch running smoothly and maintaining accurate time, save for the missing movement catch at 6 o’clock. The watch’s white enamel dial, signed by the renowned Julien Le Roy, is in excellent condition, showcasing Turkish numerals with minimal signs of wear, and is complemented by matching gilt hands that enhance its overall elegance. Encased in a substantial silver case, the watch bears worn maker’s marks and a B&D stamp, with some tarnishing that does not detract from its charm. While the original sprung cover for the winding aperture is missing, the aperture shutter remains intact, and the case itself is well-preserved with a functional hinge, catch, and catch button, ensuring the bezel snaps shut properly. Though the high dome crystal exhibits a few light scratches, these do not diminish the watch’s appeal. This remarkable creation by Julien Le Roy, originating from Paris, is a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design of the late 18th century, making it a cherished collectible for enthusiasts of historical timepieces. A remarkable Paris verge watch, created specifically for the Turkish market. MOVEMENT: This watch boasts a gilt verge movement with an intricately engraved and pierced balance bridge, adorned with a large silver regulator disk and supported by four round pillars. The Turkish numerals on the regulator disk add an interesting touch. The movement is in good condition, with only a few minor scratches and some tarnishing. However, it is worth noting that the movement catch at 6 o’clock is missing. Despite this, the watch is running well and keeping accurate time. DIAL: The watch features a white enamel dial signed by Juillien Le Roy, with Turkish numerals marking the hours. The dial is in excellent condition, with only minimal rubbing around the centre aperture. The dial is complemented by matching gilt hands, which add to the overall elegance of the timepiece. CASE: Housed in a substantial silver case, the watch is adorned with worn maker’s marks on the top of the stem, and B&D stamped on the inside. Although the original sprung cover to the winding aperture is absent, the aperture shutter is intact. There are some areas of tarnishing on the silver, but overall, it is in good condition. The case features a functional hinge, catch, and catch button, with the bezel snapping shut properly. However, the high dome crystal does have a few light scratches, though they do not detract from the overall appeal of the watch. Creator: Julien Le Roy Place of Origin: Paris Date of Manufacture: c1790 Silver case, 66 mm. Verge escapement Condition: Good