MOVEMENT : Typical high quality mid 18th century English verge movement. Nicely gilded, with blued screws, large diamond endstone and beautifully engraved and pierced balance cock. It is signed (Jos’a Rigby, London) and numbered (124). It is in good condition and running well (to within a couple of minutes per hour).

DIAL : The white enamel dial is about 39 mm in diameter. It is in good condition with just one light hairline running across the centre of the dial only from 8 towards 2, a second hairline running across the bottom between 6 and 8, and a scratch right on the edge between 30 and 35.

INNER CASE : Hallmarks for 22 ct gold, London 1766, maker PM . The case is in good condition with hinge and catch fine. The case snaps shut nicely. The high dome bull’s eye crystal is also in good condition. The bow and pendant are fine but with the usual repaired join to the case, though I believe they are original. There are no scratches or excessive wear but there are a few small dents near the pendant and a slight depression around the rim.

OUTER CASE : The wonderful 22ct solid gold repousse pair case is in excellent condition. Very minor wear to the high points on the back but no damage or repairs. The detail on the repousse work is exceptional. This case is 51mm in diameter.

Loomes lists Joshua Rigby in London from 1765.