Ilhery

Ilhery, London, No. 7091, Swiss, made for the Chinese Market, circa 1860. Fine 18K gold and enamel, pearl-set, centre-seconds watch with special escapement. Double body, Empire, with split-pearl set bezel, pendant and bow, the band with chased decoration, the enamel back panel painted with a fine allegory of temptation: a young and pretty lady is forced to choose between money and honours with an old man and love with a troubadour. Hinged gilt-brass cuvette. White enamel with Roman numerals and outer minutes and seconds ring. Gold "spade" hands. Gilt brass, fully engraved Chinese calibre with free standing barrel, single wheel duplex escapement, plain steel five arm balance, flat balance spring with regulator, diamond end-stone. Signed on the movement. Diam. 60 mm. Notes Refer to lot 200 for a biography on libel y