This is an English, silver and shell, triple cased pocket watch, with Turkish dial. It has a verge escapement fusee movement, and was made around 1819 by Edward Prior in London. Good overall condition.

MOVEMENT : Gilded movement with very ornate pillars, and engraved and pierced balance cock. The movement is signed and numbered (44171). It is in good original condition though with a little wear to the engraving around the centre of the balance cock. Running, though just a little fast (gaining about 2 minutes per hour).

DIAL : The white signed enamel dial, with Turkish numerals, is in excellent condition with just a few light surface scratches. Wonderful gold beetle and poker hands (not reproductions).

SILVER INNER CASE : Full London hallmarks for 1819, maker’s marks IR. The case and high dome crystal are both in excellent condition, with just one very light bruise on the side.

SILVER SECOND CASE : Full London hallmarks matching the inner. Again in good condition, with just some small bruises and scratches on the back and bezel near the catch. The catch is complete and the case snaps shut nicely. The catch button is dented.

SILVER/SHELL THIRD CASE : No silver hallmarks. The construction is of a brass base with silver rims. In quite good condition with no restoration. There is just one section of shell missing from the bezel (about 0.5cms) at the catch and a few short cracks. On the back there is a larger piece of shell missing, again at the catch. The shell surface is scratched but retains a good colour. The majority of silver pins are missing from the bezel and back. The hinge and catch are fine and the case closes nicely.

Edward Prior is listed in London between 1812 and 1868. Like his father, George, who he succeeded, Prior specialized in watches for the Eastern market and was making verge watches of 18th century style, still popular in this market, into the late 19th century.