Very unusual Paris repousse pair case
Stock No. 1964
Theodore Avril
Paris, c1750
Silver repousse pair cases, 48 mm
Verge escapement
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A mid 18th century Paris verge watch, in silver pair cases, with a very unusual repousse inner.
MOVEMENT : Gilt verge movement, with engraved and pierced balance bridge, four square baluster pillars and large silver regulator disk.
Excellent condition, with the gilding still bright, and running well.
Signed “Theodore Avril”.
DIAL : A signed white enamel dial.
Some small scratches and light hairlines on the edge at 2, but otherwise in good condition.
Fancy gilt hands.
INNER CASE : Silver, but with no silver or maker’s marks. Decorated with very unusual repousse work, possibly representing foliage or flower petals.
In good condition. The hinge is fine and the bezel snaps shut correctly.
The high dome bull’s eye crystal is ok with some rubbing.
OUTER CASE : Silver repousse pair case, with three figures to the back. Probably a biblical scene.
In good condition with just a little wear to the repousse high points, resulting in some tiny holes. The hinge and catch are complete and the case snaps shut. Possibly an old repair to the bezel at the catch.
Theodore Avril is listed in Paris in 1750. He died in 1761.
This French watch and clockmaker was in charge of the clocks of Fontainebleau under Louis XV.