Three Colour Gold Verge

Dealer description — WatchMuseum.org shop

Step back in time with the exquisite “Three Colour Gold Verge,” a remarkable late 18th-century timepiece that embodies the opulence and craftsmanship of its era. This stunning verge watch is encased in a three-colour gold consular case adorned with sparkling stones, making it a true collector’s gem. The full plate fire gilt movement, featuring round pillars, a pierced and engraved cock, and a silver regulator disc, showcases the meticulous artistry of the period. Complementing the intricate movement is a plain three-arm steel balance and a blue steel spiral hairspring, ensuring precision and reliability. The watch’s white enamel dial, elegantly marked with Roman and Arabic numerals and stone-set hands, adds a touch of timeless sophistication. Encased in 18-carat continental gold, the consular case is a masterpiece in itself, boasting an engine-turned back with applied three-colour gold decoration, framed by an oval border of white stones, and a two-colour gold bezel set with a single row of white stones. Unique to this watch is the intriguing combination of an English movement housed in a continental case and dial, suggesting a bespoke creation tailored to the original owner’s discerning taste. Whether specified by the customer or imported by the English watchmaker, this rare and beautiful timepiece seamlessly blends the finest elements of English and continental design, making it a treasured addition to any horological collection. This is a gorgeous late 18th Century verge watch with a three colour gold consular case set with stones. The full plate fire gilt movement features round pillars, a pierced and engraved cock, and a silver regulator disc. A plain three-arm steel balance and blue steel spiral hairspring complete the movement. The dial is white enamel with Roman and Arabic numerals, stone set hands, and is wound through. The 18 carat continental consular case is particularly attractive, with a back that is engine turned and decorated with applied three colour gold decoration. The scene is framed by an oval border of white stones, and the two-colour gold bezel is also set with a single row of white stones. Interestingly, this watch features an English movement housed in a continental case and dial. While it’s impossible to know the reason for this today, it’s clear that the dial feet occupy the original holes in the plate, meaning this is not a replacement watch. It’s possible that the original customer specified that an English movement be used, or alternatively the English watchmaker imported the case and dial from the continent. Regardless, this is a beautiful and rare timepiece that combines the best of English and continental design.