Robert Molyneux Quarter-Repeating Pocket Watch
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
circa 1800
This silver pocket watch is attributed to the maker Robert Molyneux of London, dating to circa 1800. It is identified by the serial number 556. The watch features a white enamel dial marked with Roman numerals and a subsidiary seconds register, accompanied by gold "Poire" style hands.
The case is constructed of solid silver and incorporates a guilloché pattern with a central reserve on the case back. Internally, the watch utilizes a gilt-brass cage movement equipped with cylindrical pillars, a chain and fusee drive, and a duplex escapement. A three-armed balance with a flat balance spring is employed, featuring a diamond counter-pivot. The quarter-repeating function is operated via the pendant, striking on two hammers and two gongs.
A gilt-metal dust cover protects the movement, which is documented as marked. The watch has a diameter of 56 millimeters.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Technical characteristics
- Type
- Quarter repeating pocket watch
- Maker
- Robert Molyneux
- Diameter
- 56 mm
- Escapement
- Duplex
- Case Material
- Silver
- Movement Type
- Gilt-brass cage movement
- Serial Number
- 556
- Place recorded
- London
- Maker / attribution
- Robert Molyneux
- Repeating complication
- Quarter-repeater
Design
- Case and Dial
- The pocket watch is housed in a solid silver case described as featuring a guilloché finish. A central reserve is present on the case back, providing a decorative focal point. The watch utilizes a white enamel dial, which displays time via black Roman numerals. Additionally, the dial incorporates a subsidiary dial positioned for the tracking of seconds. The watch is fitted with gold hands in the Poire style, which contrast against the white enamel surface. The overall diameter of the object is 56 millimeters.
- Visible features
- • White enamel dial with Roman numerals • Gold Poire style hands • Guilloché silver case back • Subsidiary seconds dial
- Movement and Mechanics
- The movement is constructed as a gilt-brass cage, held together by cylindrical pillars. It utilizes a chain and fusee mechanism for power transmission. The timekeeping regulation is managed by a duplex escapement, paired with a three-armed balance wheel featuring a flat balance spring and a diamond counter-pivot. A repeating function capable of sounding the hours and quarters is integrated into the watch. This mechanism is operated via the pendant, which activates two hammers striking against two individual gongs. The entire movement is shielded by a gilt-metal dust cover, and the auction description reports that the movement is marked.
- Attribution and Condition
- The watch is attributed to Robert Molyneux, working in London, with a suggested date of circa 1800. The item is identified by the serial number 556. The auction description reports the condition of the watch as good. The piece is classified as a pocket watch and noted for its use of a special escapement, which the technical details identify as a duplex arrangement. All details regarding construction, from the gilt-brass cage to the striking train, are based on the accompanying documentation provided for this specific lot.
Identification
- Serial number
- 556
- Source note
- Facts transcribed from the linked source listing or collection record. Attribution and specifications are source-reported and have not been independently authenticated.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.
Research required
- Research required: Movement markings not specified beyond being "marked"
- Research required: Specific composition of "special escapement" referenced only as duplex