MOVEMENT : The gilded verge movement is signed (Geo. Prior, London) and numbered (6520). All appears to be original and it is running well.

DIAL : The white enamel dial, with painted flowers, is about 36.5 mm in diameter. Good condition with no repairs but some hairlines and wear, mostly down the right hand side. Blued steel hands. The painted flowers on this dial have been very well done and appear to be original (under the glaze which has not been retouched).

INNER CASE : 42.5 mm. Brass gilt, maker’s mark IR. Good condition but with wear to the gilding around the edge. Good hinge, catch and high dome bull’s eye crystal with no damage. Replacement bow.

OUTER CASE : 51.5 mm. Brass gilt. The gilding has worn evenly from the back and bezel but no dents or damage. The opening catch and button are absent.

Loomes lists George Prior in London between 1765 and 1812. Like his son Edward, who succeeded him, Prior specialized in watches for the Eastern market and was making verge watches of 18th century style, still popular in this market, into the 19th century.