18thc enamel verge, Southampton

A late 18th century verge, in an unusual enamelled pair case.

MOVEMENT : Gilt verge movement, the engraved and pierced balance cock with scrolls and flowers. Four round pillars, large silver regulator disk and blued screws.

Running well, and in good condition.

Signed “John Cragg, SOUTHAMPTON” and numbered “1789”.

DIAL : White enamel dial, in reasonable condition, with a few light surface scratches and a crack around the edge between 6 and 7.

Matching gold coloured hands.

INNER CASE : Gilt brass, with maker’s mark WR.

The brass is in very good condition, though there is wear to the gilding, especially on the sides, stem and bow. The hinge is fine and the bezel snaps shut correctly. The high dome crystal is good.

OUTER CASE : An engraved gilt brass pair case, with a blue guilloche panel set into the back. Gold painted decoration over the enamel.

Again in very good condition. The catch is complete and the case snaps shut correctly. The gilt brass is in excellent condition, with just a little even wear to the gilding.
The blue enamel has a few small chips around the edge, and some surface scratches, but generally it is good. The gold painted decoration to the enamel is fine.

John Cragg is listed in Southampton in around 1790.