A. Gerard - Verge Fusee - 882 - Earlier than 1850

This exceptionally well-preserved antique silver verge fusee pocket watch is a historical masterpiece from the late 18th or early 19th century (ca. 1798–1809).

The movement is proudly signed on the richly gilded and engraved rear plate by the respected watchmaker A. Gérard à Liège (Liège, Belgium).

The movement is running and the mechanism features a beautifully hand-cut openworked balance cock with floral engraving and a functioning fusee mechanism, characteristic of high-quality watchmaking from this historic period.

The silver case is internally bearing a rare early French silver hallmark in the form of a rooster with its head inverted (Poinçon au Coq, used between 1798 and 1809), indicating export or assay through the department then annexed by France.

Also present here is the master mark 'XT' in a lozenge and the serial number 882, which is also struck on the edge of the case near the pendant. The inside of the case back furthermore shows fascinating hand-engraved watchmaker markings (including 1-97), bearing witness to historical maintenance through the centuries.

The watch is in remarkably original and collectible condition. The pristine white enamel dial is signed "A. Gerard A LIEGE" and equipped with refined openworked, gold-colored Louis XVI-style hands and elegant Arabic numeral hour markers.

The domed crystal is set in a smoothly hinged lunette that closes perfectly. The movement runs by key-winding and displays a beautiful gilt finish; for such old timepieces we recommend the buyer have the mechanism checked/repaired for optimal functioning. A unique collectible for the connoisseur of early European horology.

Shipped by registered mail and insured.