Important Collectors Wristwatches, P...
Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Oct 20, 1991
LOT 251
A. Bell Seymor in York, circa 1650. Fine early silver English Puritan watch.
CHF 22,000 - 26,000
Sold: CHF 32,200
C. Two body, "bassine", polished with winding shutter and loose-ring pendant. D. Plain polished silver with Roman numerals, half and quarter hour divisions, the dial plate with engraved hatched decoration. Single blued-steel hand. M. Gilt brass full-plate, pierced Egyptian pillars, three wheel train with fusee and gut line, wormand- wheel set-up with blued-steel brackets and silver disc. Verge escapement with plain balance without spring, florally pierced oval cock secured by a screw. Signed on the back plate. In good condition. Diam. 53 mm.
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 orbade
any display of wealth.
Formerly in the collection of Edward Hornby.