GILT CENTRE SECONDS ENGLISH CYLINDER – Circa 1790

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