This is a late 18thc verge pocket watch, made by Jonathon Purchis, in Margate, Kent around 1780. The case is a much earlier 22ct gold engraved pair case, made in 1690.

MOVEMENT : A nice clean, good quality movement with engraved and pierced balance cock. Six spokes on the 3rd and 4th wheels (a sign of good quality). It is signed and numbered (31), is in very good original condition and is running well.

DIAL : The white enamel dial is about 35.5 mm in diameter. It is in perfect condition except for a small repair, right on the edge between 7 and 6. Nice old gold beetle and poker hands, though the hour hand has been repaired.

INNER CASE : Diameter 41.5 mm. Hallmarked for 1690, 22ct. gold, maker SWF?. The hinge is fine and the case closes properly. The stem and bow are not gold and are later. The high dome crystal is in good condition with just some light scratches. The gold is in reasonable condition with some small dents and bruises around the edge but no cracks or holes. The winding aperture cover is fine and works well.

OUTER CASE : Diameter 46.2 mm. with matching hallmarks to the inner. The hinge and catch are fine and the case snaps shut nicely. Here is a short split between the rim and the catch button (see photo) and some light wear to the engraving but no other damage and no holes.

This wonderful early gold pair case is very rare. The earliest know hallmarks on gold cases only date from a few years earlier in about 1683. The movement is a perfect fit, with the catch and winding arbor lining up perfectly with the case and the hinge sleeves are tight with no gaps. I think it probable that the movement was made to fit this case.