MOVEMENT : Gilded movement with four ornate pillars, and engraved and pierced balance cock. The movement is signed (Rt. & Pr Higgs) and numbered (3845). It is in very good condition and running well.

The movement is protected by a removable gilt dustcap, signed (Higgs, London) and numbered as the movement.

DIAL : The white signed enamel dial is in good condition with no repairs or chips, but some surface scratches, mostly between 1 and 2 o’clock.

Fine original 18th century blued steel beetle and poker hands.

SILVER INNER CASE : Full London hallmarks for 1765, maker’s marks TI (stamped 3 times). Also stamped with the movement serial number (3845). The case and high dome crystal are both in excellent condition, and the bezel snaps shut nicely.

It would originally have had a sliding shutter to the winding aperture, which is now absent.

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 consists of a red glass or ceramic stud.

SILVER/SHAGREEN THIRD CASE : The construction is of a silver base with green shagreen covering (could be textured leather) and silver pins. In good condition with no restoration. There are just two sections of shagreen missing from the bezel (the larger is about 2 cms at the catch). The covering on the back is complete.

There are just 5 silver pins missing from the bezel, and about 10 from the central decoration on the back. The hinge, catch and catch button are fine and the case closes nicely.

Robert & Peter Higgs (father & son) of Sweetings Alley, London are listed together in 1770, though both are listed individually and Robert was also partnered with James Evans.