This is a very rare painted pair cased pocket watch, with a wonderful verge fusee movement, made by the well known inventor and clock maker, Christopher Pinchbeck, in around 1700.

MOVEMENT : The verge fusee movement is fully signed (CHRISto PINCHBECH LONDON) and numbered (284). It is running well. The silver balance cock is beautifully pierced and engraved. The movement is protected by a glazed silver band, pierced and engraved to match the balance cock. The movement is complete and in very fine condition.

DIAL : The white enamel dial is about 39 mm in diameter. There is one light hairline running from the centre towards 6 o’clock and two small chips on the edge at 6 and 8. Also a few surface scratches but no repairs. Very nice old blued steel beetle and poker hands which are 18th century and not reproductions.

INNER CASE : Diameter 45mm. No maker’s marks. The gilding on the inside is complete. The painting on the outside has some rubbing around the edge but fortunately the picture is almost perfect with a little crazing to the varnish and a couple of small marks to the bottom. The hinge and catch are fine and there are no dents. The pendant and bow are later replacements. The high dome bull’s eye crystal is ok with just one small chip on the edge at 12 o’clock.

OUTER CASE : Diameter 51.7mm. This gilt brass case is in very good condition with the hinge, catch and button all fine. The painted surfaces are also in good condition with just a couple of scratches on the bezel and some small chips on the back (portrait).

Christopher Pinchbeck was born in 1670 and died in 1732. He worked in Fleet Street and made astronomical and musical clocks. He also invented the alloy resembling gold which is named after him.