This is a large English, silver and shell, triple cased pocket watch, with Turkish dial. It has a verge escapement fusee movement, and was made around 1816 by Edward Prior in London. Good overall condition.

MOVEMENT : Gilded movement with very ornate pillars, and engraved and pierced balance cock. The movement is signed and numbered (42336). It is in very good condition and running well.

DIAL : The white signed enamel dial, with Turkish numerals, is in very good condition with just a few light surface scratches and very slight damage right on the edge at 4. No repairs.

SILVER INNER CASE : Full London hallmarks for 1816, maker’s marks IR. The case and high dome bull’s eye crystal are both in excellent condition, and the bezel snaps shut nicely.

SILVER SECOND CASE : Full London hallmarks matching the inner. Again in very good condition. The catch is complete and the case snaps shut nicely. The catch button is slightly worn.

SILVER/SHELL THIRD CASE : No silver hallmarks. The construction is of a brass base with silver rims. In good condition with no restoration. There is just one section of shell missing from the bezel (about 4cms) at the catch. On the back there are a few small dents to the shell but no pieces missing or cracks. The shell surface retains a good colour. The majority of silver pins are present from the bezel and back. The hinge and catch are fine and the case closes nicely.

Edward Prior is listed in London between 1812 and 1868. Like his father, George, who he succeeded, Prior specialized in watches for the Eastern market and was making verge watches of 18th century style, still popular in this market, into the late 19th century.