Provincial verge in silver half hunter pair cases

An early 19th century Shropshire verge watch, in silver half hunter pair cases.

MOVEMENT : Gilt fusee movement, with verge escapement, nicely engraved and pierced balance cock, four round pillars, and Bosley type regulator.

Running well, and in good condition, though with some scratches to the top plate, especially around the pillar top to the right of the signature.

Signed Willm. Payne, LUDLOW and numbered 986.

DIAL : A half hunter, cream coloured enamel dial, in good condition. Just a few light scratches and a small flake above the central aperture.

Gilt brass hands.

INNER CASE : Silver, with hallmarks for Birminham, 1818, maker’s mark HH.

In good condition throughout. The hinge is fine and the bezel snaps shut correctly. The small half hunter glass is fine. The bow and stem are good.

OUTER CASE : Silver pair case. Hallmarks and maker’s mark matching the inner.

Again in good condition throughout. The hinge, catch button and catch are fine. Just a few light bruises to the back.

The case maker is Hannah Howard (widow of William Howard) of Coventry.