Gold pair cased verge by Thomas Laidlaw

Good quality verge movement, in finely engraved gold pair cases.

MOVEMENT : Gilt verge movement, with engraved and pierced balance cock, diamond endstone, polished steel escape wheel, four round pillars, and blued screws.

Signed and numbered (606).

The gilt dust cap is signed and numbered as the movement.

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

DIAL : Fine white enamel dial with some small chips around the edges, some small scratches and one very light, short hairline from the edge at 5. Matching gilt hands.

INNER CASE : 22ct gold, with clear London hallmarks for 1786, maker’s mark IL.

In good condition throughout, with just a little compression around the band. The high dome crystal has just one tiny chip right on the bezel.

OUTER CASE : 22ct. gold pair case with clear matching hallmarks to the inner. Engraved decoration to the bezel and back, with the cartouche to the centre of the back showing a family crest and monogram.

All in excellent condition, with the engraved decoration still crisp. The hinge, catch and catch button are all fine and the bezel snaps shut correctly.

The case maker’s mark is that of John Laithwait, of Gray’s Inn Lane, London.

Thomas Laidlaw is listed at Salisbury Court, London in 1770 and in the Clockmakers’ Company between 1781 and 1794.

The family crest and motto (Sub Robore Virtus) are for the Aikman family.