Jean-Henri Divernois a Paris

Jean-Henri Divernois a Paris, circa 1785. Exceptionally fine and rare 18K gold, diamond-set miniature lady's pendant watch with double virgule escapement, whose movement, together with dial and hands weigh only 3,08 grams. Two-body, "Louis XVI", glazed on both sides, engraved bezels, front bezel set with diamonds. Notes To produce a double virgule balance staff- one of the most difficult of all staffs to make for any watch is an art in itself, but to make one for a watch as small as this one requires extraordinary horological skills. Divernois was a master in double virgule escapement who was known for fitting them into miniature repeaters which he then incorporated into ring watches. Tardy reports that he charged between 10 and 20,000 livres for them. Miniaturization in horology began in the 14th century, when table clocks became so small that they could be carried. They looked like 15th century round table clocks but were smaller. This, in course, led to watches, which in the beginning were actually small, wearable clocks. Their popularity grew very quickly. Once the fashion of wearing watches was established, makers rivaled with each other for their miniaturization. Only the best, of course, could fit all the necessary parts in a small area, but some succeeded beyond expectations. By 1518 watchmakers were able to make movements so small that they could be placed within the hilt of a dagger. Some such pieces were made for Francois I of France, for which he paid a s Read more…