171,250 CHF
Edward East, circa 1630. Very fine silver and rock crystal crucifix watch, with original silver fitted protecting case. Gilt-brass two piece frame engraved with patchwork. Hinged faceted rock crystal cover and back, loose-ring pendant and button finial. Silver shaped two body, polished. Hinged silver dial plate engraved with angels and crucifixion below. Engraved chapter ring with Roman numerals. Single turned beetle blued -steel hand. Shaped gilt-brass plate with early pierced Egyptian pillars, fusee with gut line, three wheel train, verge escapement, twoarm steel balance without spring, irregular silver oval foliage pierced and engraved cock with matching cock for the ratchet wheel set-up. Signed on the back plate. In excellent condition. Dim. 56 x 38 mm. including the outer case. Notes Note: English watches of cruciform shape are particularly rare, all the more so when housed in a silver case. As a metal silver was associated with the moon, and therefore Diana, who represented the virtue of purity in mythology. It is therefore a distinct possibility that this watch was made for a woman within the church, with its implication of chastity and purity; a hypothesis supported by the existence of a French crucifix watch entirely in silver, and apparently the property of the Abbesse of Troyes. Edward East, with his catholic connections would seem to be a likely choice to receive the commission for a watch destined for an important member of the church.
Auctioneer:
Antiquorum
Date:
1995-10-21
