Napoleon III Pocket Watch Stand

French Antique Pocket Watch Holder (Porte-Montre), Gilt Bronze and Beveled Glass, Napoleon III Period, circa Mid-19th Century, France.

An unusually detailed French pocket watch holder from the Napoleon III period, circa mid-19th century. These stands, known in French as porte-montre, were used to display a gentleman's pocket watch overnight on his desk or bedside table, keeping the dial visible like a small clock.

This example stands out from typical versions with its exceptionally rich construction and the generous use of thick beveled glass panels throughout.

The case is built from gilt bronze with a vine and grape motif. The base features a cast grape cluster with curling tendrils, and the same motif continues at the crown of the piece.
The body of the holder is set with seven thick beveled glass discs, three on each side and one large central disc on the front, giving it an open, almost lantern-like quality that shows the watch from multiple angles.
The gilt bronze framing between the glass panels is decorated with fine-toothed edging and leaf detailing. On the back, a white metal plate closes the case.

Opening the front panel reveals the original lined interior, still in place, with a small bronze hook at the top from which to hang the pocket watch.
The lining is in the original rose silk, tufted with small red knots.

The condition is good. There are some light scratches, a few small dents to the metal, and minor scratches & micro-chipping around the edges of some of the glass panels. The original fabric lining shows some wear but remains intact. The hook is in place and the piece stands stable. Looks wonderful.

Height: 12.5 cm
Width: 7 cm
Depth: 5.5 cm

Please take a good look at the photos, which are an integral part of the description.

This lot will be carefully packed and will get to its new owner exactly as it should.