Miniature Verge Pocket Watch

Stock No. 1344
J. Gray,  London, c1740
Silver case, 38.75 mm.
Miniature verge escapement

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A fine little London verge, in a silver case, with a Morocco leather presentation case.

MOVEMENT : Gilded verge movement, signed (J. Gray) and numbered (430) with large pierced and engraved balance cock with wide ‘D’ shaped foot. Silver regulator disk and four square pillars.

The movement is in excellent condition, and is running well.

DIAL : Fine early white enamel dial. In almost perfect condition with just one small fleck above the winding aperture and small chips on the edge at 5 and 9.
Fine original 18th century steel beetle and poker hands.

CASE : Silver, with maker’s mark AF. Beautifully engraved on the back with monogram and family crest. Sliding shutter over the winding square.

The silver of the case is in very good condition, with just one small dent at the bottom right of the monogram and a small dent to the catch button. The hinges and catch are fine and the case snaps shut nicely. The high dome crystal is fine.

The Morocco dark green leather presentation case (80 mm. x 64 mm.) is marked with initials L-G.B. Green velvet and cream silk lined.
Probably made in the late 19th century, there is no retailer’s name so was almost certainly made especially for this little watch which fits perfectly into the shaped interior. Excellent condition.

PROVENANCE : This watch was formerly in the collection of Georges Baptiste, antique dealer and former President of BRAFA (Brussels Art Fair).