Collector's Pocket Watches, Wristwatc...

Noga Hilton, Geneva, Apr 12, 2003

LOT 342

Fierville a Caën, France, circa 1770.Fine and very early 18K gold pocket watch.

CHF 4,500 - 6,500

EUR 3,000 - 4,500 / USD 3,300 - 4,800

C.Two-body, Louis XV, the back decorated with builder's symbols, crescent, star, and flowers, with letter "G" in stars.D. White enamel, Roman numerals, outer minute divisions with five-minute Arabic markers, winding aperture between 3 and 4 o'clock. Gold "Louis XV" hands. M. 37 mm. (17'''), hinged, frosted gilt full plate with square baluster pillars, fusee and chain, verge escapement, steel balance with flat balance spring, continental cock.Signed on the movement.Diam. 47 mm


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good

Case: 3
Movement: 3*
Dial: 3 - 19 - 01

Notes

Fierville is known to have worked in 1757 for the Saint-Etienne monastery. It is possible that the decoration on the back represents early Masonic symbolism. At the time Freemasons hardly existed outside of England, becoming an international movement only after 1772. However, it is possible that a brother having moved to France may have requested a watch with a symbolism of his fraternity.