Very rare watch by Thomas Tompion and George Graham

A fine verge movement, by Thomas Tompion and George Graham, in a later silver case, and with later enamel dial. This is one of the last watches produced and signed by Thomas Tompion (he died in 1713).

MOVEMENT : Gilt verge escapement movement, signed and numbered (4558). Four Egyptian pillars and a well engraved winged balance cock, with a mask to the neck and scrolls on the table. The steel balance wheel hairspring is pinned with a square profile pin.

All in excellent condition throughout and running well.

The serial number (4558) is also engraved on the dial plate and the underside of the balance cock (see photos).

The square section hairspring pin and serial number repeated on the dial plate are unusual features but routinely seen on Tompion watches.
On Graham watches the serial number is also usually repeated under the balance cock,

DIAL : A later white enamel dial.
In average condition, with some small marks around the aperture, and repairs on the edge at 4 and 6.

Blued steel beetle and poker hands, in good condition.

CASE : Silver case with hallmarks for London, 1780 and maker’s mark RP. Revolving shutter to the winding aperture.

In very good condition throughout. The hinge is fine and the bezel closes correctly. The high dome crystal is fine.

This later case is a perfect fit, so was probably purpose made for this watch.

REFERENCE : This watch is listed in “Thomas Tompion 300 Years” by Jeremy Evans, Jonathan Carter & Ben Wright. This excellent book includes lists of movement serial numbers for Tompion.
The reference indicates that the No. 4558 is by Tompion & Graham, and is in a single silver case, with Egyptian pillars, and later dial.

The serial number dates the watch to 1712 or 1713 Only 20 watches signed by both Tompion and Graham were supposed to have been made. The last was no. 4560 (just 2 watches later). Tompion died in 1713.

Thomas Tompion