Verge Pocket Watch, Tortoiseshell Case, 18th century

#Pocket watch #tortoise shell #Antique clock
The large Verge pocket watch with a tortoiseshell pair case from the 18th century is one of the most iconic examples of classical European watchmaking – particularly English, French and Swiss. These watches were not only technical masterpieces but also aesthetic masterpieces, often used as status symbols by aristocrats and the upper class.
🕰️ Typical technical features of the Verge tortoiseshell case (18th century)
Specifications Description
Movement Verge escapement (ancient escapement mechanism), combined with a fusee chain system
Jewels From 0 to 7; some high-end models have a "jewelled" balance
Case type Pair case: consists of 2 layers - inner case in silver or bronze, outer case in real tortoiseshell pressed into a metal frame (usually silver)
Size Usually from 50 to 60 mm in diameter, some models up to 65 mm (very large for a pocket watch)
Dial White enamel, Roman numerals, possibly hand-painted
Hands Blue steel, serpentine or fleur-de-lis
Movement decoration Balance cock engraved with patterns, sometimes set with precious stones (garnet, imitation ruby ​​...)