This is an English, silver and shell, triple cased pocket watch, with Turkish dial. It has a verge escapement fusee movement, and was made around 1863 by Edward Prior in London. Fine overall condition.

MOVEMENT : Gilded movement with very ornate pillars, and engraved and pierced balance cock. The movement is signed and numbered (75254). It is in fine condition and running well.

DIAL : The white signed enamel dial, with Turkish numerals, is in perfect condition. Blued steel hands.

SILVER INNER CASE : Full London hallmarks for 1863, maker’s marks WGS. The case shows a little compression around the band, some light scratches on the back and a small dent near the winding aperture. But generally in good condition. The hinge and high dome crystal are in excellent condition, and the bezel snaps shut nicely.

SILVER SECOND CASE : Full London hallmarks matching the inner.

The catch is complete and the case snaps shut nicely. The catch button has worn down and there are scratches to the back of the case, but in generally good condition.

SILVER/SHELL THIRD CASE : No silver hallmarks, but with the same maker’s mark (WGS). The construction is of a brass base with silver rims. In good condition with no restoration.

The shell covering has a good colour, and is complete with just one short crack on the back from the edge at 4. The majority of silver pins are present from the bezel (12 missing) and back (15 missing). The hinge and catch are fine and the case closes nicely. The inside of the back is tarnished but undamaged.

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.

He was making verge watches of 18th century style, still popular in this market, into the late 19th century, and this is a very late example.