Deburge a Blois

Deburge a Blois, France, circa 1640. Fine gilt-metal and rock crystal octagonal pre-balance spring watch in a gilt brass protecting case. Gilt-brass frame, hinged faceted rock crystal cover and back, loose-ring pendant and button finial. Gilt-brass, finely engraved with a winged angel and foliage, the chapter ring with Roman numerals. Single turned blued-steel hand. Hinged oval giltbrass full plate with turned urn pillars, fusee with gutline, three wheel train, verge escapement, steel twoarm balance without spring, irregular oval foliage pierced and engraved cock secured by a pin, with steel click for the ratchet wheel set-up. Dim. 50 x 228 mm. Notes Among all the watchmakers with originated from England and worked in Blois, Jacob Deburges was certainly the one who enjoyed the longest carreer. He was already active as early as 1591 and worked as watchmaker for over 50 years. IIe was the son of a book dealer from London and married in Blois Anne Duduict, from a watchmaker's family, who gave him a son in 1598. hi 1609, he took as apprentice Jean Garnier, who came from Vendome. Deburges was recorded on the list of Masters in 1639 and known to be still active in 1643.