EARLY VERGE POCKET WATCH WITH GARDEN OF EDEN AUTOMATION - 1730
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1730
Signed English; Circa 1730; Diameter 52 mm; Depth 20mm Documented from the WatchMuseum.org collection record and its own photograph of the object; only details stated by that listing are recorded here. Remaining specifications are marked research required rather than estimated.
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.
Historical context
This is a remarkable and rare 18th century English verge watch featuring an automated scene encased in a consular gold case. The watch has a deep full plate fire gilt movement with turned baluster pillars, fusee and chain with a worm and wheel barrel set up between plates. The winged cock and regulator plate are left plain without any piercing or engraving. The plain gilt balance is supported by a central stalk, which also carries a wheel driven by another mounted on the contrate wheel arbor. The watch has an exquisite white enamel dial with apertures for winding and regulation. The dial has Roman and Arabic numerals, blue steel beetle and poker hands. The watch case is a plain gold consular case with the maker's mark "IB". At the back of the case, there is a glazed aperture that reveals a gold chased and engraved repousse scene showing Eve offering Adam the apple in the Garden of Eden. As the watch runs, a snake circles the scene, its support hidden under the pierced and engraved border of the dust cover. This watch is a rare and exceptional timepiece that is in excellent overall condition. It is surprising that the specially designed movement is not signed, and the maker has not decorated the cock, which remains concealed under the dust ring that is secured by two screws. This watch is signed English and dates back to around 1730. Its diameter is 52mm, and its depth is 20mm. Signed English Circa 1730 Diameter 52 mm Depth 20mm (Description from The Watch Museum (watchmuseum.org); details apply to the illustrated example, not every object of this type.)
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.