polychrome dial verge Pocket watch – 1791

This late 18th-century verge watch is a stunning piece, with a beautiful combination of repousse silver and tortoiseshell cases. The gilt verge movement, featuring an engraved and pierced balance bridge, is in excellent working condition, signed by Samson of London and numbered 18848.

The dial is a polychrome enamel masterpiece, showcasing an arcaded chapter ring and a picturesque rural scene at the center. While there is some wear around the edges of the enamel and repairs between 12 and 2, the charming painted scene remains in fine condition. The early steel beetle and poker hands add a touch of elegance to the overall design.

The inner case, made of silver and hallmarked for London 1791 with maker's mark TP, shows signs of age with dents and scratches on the inner rim. However, the hinge is in good condition, allowing the bezel to close securely. The high dome bull's eye crystal shows some light scratches but no chips.

The middle case, also made of silver, features intricate repousse decoration depicting Diana the Huntress and two additional figures. The silver is generally in good condition, with some wear on the high points of the repousse work but no holes exposing the back. The hinge, catch, and closure are all intact and functioning correctly, although the catch button appears slightly squashed.

The outer case is a combination of silver and brass, covered with a beautiful shell. The bezel and back are adorned with silver pins, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal. The hinge and catch are complete and allow the case to close securely, although the catch button has experienced some wear. The shell on the back is complete but has a few long cracks, and some pins are missing. About half of the shell covering on the bezel is missing, and again, some pins are absent.

Although marked as "LONDON," this particular watch is likely of Continental origin, possibly originating from Switzerland or France. The outer case, though a good fit for the watch, appears to be older, possibly dating back to the mid-18th century. Overall, this timepiece is a remarkable example of craftsmanship, combining intricate detailing and exquisite materials.

Creator: Samson
Place of Origin: London
Date of Manufacture: 1791
Shell & silver repousse triple cases, 59mm.
Verge escapement
Condition: Good