Important Wristwatches, Watches & Clocks
Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Apr 11, 1992
LOT 550
Thomas Hows Fecit, England, circa 1650. Fine early, oval silver English Puritan watch.
CHF 18,000 - 22,000
Sold: CHF 23,000
C. Oval two body, bassine, polished with winding shutter and loos-ring pendant. D. Plain polished silver with Roman numerals, half and quarter hour divisions. Single blued steel hand. M. GiIt brass full plate, amphore pillars, three wheel train with fusee and gut line, worm and wheel set-up with gilt brass brackets and silver disc. Verge escapement with plain balance without spring, florally pierced oval cock secured by a pin. Signed on the back plate. In good condition. Dim. 56 x 39mm.
Notes
This is a typical example of a puritan watch, so named
because of the plain aspect of the case and dial, in keeping
with the strict code of behaviour enforced in
England, under the governement of Oliver Cromwell,
which forbade any display of wealth.