Pair Cased Verge by Samuel Clay, Gainsborough

An early 18th century English verge watch, in silver & gilt/shagreen pair cases.

MOVEMENT : Gilt fusee movement, with verge escapement, engraved and pierced winged balance cock with an engraved mask to the neck. Four square baluster pillars.

Running well, and in good condition.

Signed “Sam. Clay, Gainsbrough”.

DIAL : A fine white enamel dial, in very good condition with no damage except for a few surface scratches.

Fine blued steel beetle and poker hands.

INNER CASE : Silver, with maker’s mark AB? (rubbed).

In good condition. The hinge is fine and the bezel shuts correctly. The high dome crystal is good. The bow and stem are brass so probably replacements.
The movement catch can be accessed through a small hole in the case at 6, as an alternative to the external catch thumb piece. The catch can then be released by pushing a pin through this hole.

OUTER CASE : Gilt/shagreen pair case.

This case is in reasonable condition, with wear to the gilding, wear to the catch button and areas of shagreen missing (especially to the bezel). The hinge and catch are complete and the case snaps shut correctly.

Although this outer case is a good fit for the inner, it is not original, and was probably made in the late 18thc.

There is a Samuel Clay is listed in Gainsborough (Lincs) from about 1700 to about 1720. This movement appears to date from about 1740.