This is a wonderful English silver gilt pair cased pocket watch, in good working condition, with a verge escapement fusee movement, made around 1760 by Joseph Millis of London.

MOVEMENT : Nicely gilded movement, with square pillars and beautifully engraved and pierced balance cock with “lace” edging (typical of 1760s). The movement is signed and numbered (1045). The hinge piece on the movement is missing one sleeve but is still held firmly in the case. The movement is running well.

DIAL : The white enamel dial is about 35 mm in diameter. It is in good condition with a few light scratches, a small edge chip (reglued) at 2 o’clock and a repair around the opening catch at 6 o’clock.
Very fine, matching gold beetle and poker hands (18th century original, not reproduction).

INNER CASE : Full hallmarks for London, 1760. The hinge is in good condition and the case snaps shut nicely. High dome bull’s eye crystal in good condition with no damage. The bow and pendant are fine without the usual repaired join to the case. The case is in excellent condition with no dents or repairs. The gilding is complete except for a few scratches around the edge where it has rubbed on the outer case.

OUTER CASE : This is a marvellous heavy silver gilt repousse case, about 51mm in diameter. No hallmarks, but this is normal, and it is certainly original to the inner. Again the hinge is good and the case snaps shut nicely. The small release button is dented, but otherwise the case is in very fine condition with no dents, repairs or damage. The gilding is almost perfect with just a little wear on the high points of the back.

Loomes lists Joseph Millis in London, pre 1765.