17th century French single handed verge

A late 17thc. ‘oignon’ single handed verge.

MOVEMENT : Gilt verge movement, with a large, beautifully engraved and pierced, balance bridge. Early style of balance regulator.

Unsigned.

In good condition and running well.

This is a single handed watch (hour hand only). The hand is driven directly from the fusee arbor (no centre wheel).

DIAL : A gilt dial with black numerals in white enamel cartouches, and a central quarter hour enamel chapter ring around a gilt engraved central disk. The enamel is in very good condition, with just some small repairs to the 6, at the opening catch.
The gilding is a little worn in places, with the base metal (copper ?) showing through.

The steel hand, which is in good condition, appears to be original.

CASE : A gilt brass case, with a black leather covering to the bezel and back.

The case is in reasonable condition though with an old repair to the bezel. The leather is in very good condition, so is probably a replacement, though very well done.

The stem and bow appear to be original, though the stem has been reinforced. The hinge is fine and the bezel closes (though gapes a little).

The high dome bull’s eye crystal is in reasonable condition, with a chip right on the edge at 4. The crystal has been glued in place (probably because the outer rim of the bezel is a little worn) though it fits well.