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 1835 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 (52369). It is in good condition and running well.

DIAL : The white signed enamel dial, with Turkish numerals, is in good condition, with no repairs, but 4 light hairlines radiating from the centre, and a tiny chip on the edge at 8. Good 19th century (not reproduction) blued steel beetle and poker hands.

SILVER INNER CASE : Full London hallmarks for 1835, maker’s marks JS (rubbed). Perfect condition throughout. The hinge and very high dome crystal are fine, and the bezel snaps shut nicely.

SILVER SECOND CASE : London hallmarks matching the inner.

The catch, catch button and hinge are fine and the case snaps shut nicely.

Just a couple of light scratches on the back but otherwise perfect.

SILVER/SHELL THIRD CASE : 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 some small chips and scratches on the back (the worst near the catch button). The shell on the bezel is perfect. The majority of silver pins are present from the bezel (14 missing) and back (15 missing). The hinge and catch are fine (the catch button is dented) 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.

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