Triple Cased Verge by Prior

This is an English, silver and shell, triple cased pocket watch, with Turkish dial. In unusually fine condition.

MOVEMENT : Gilded movement with very ornate pillars, silvered Turkish regulator disk, and engraved and pierced balance cock. The movement is signed and numbered (68613). It is in excellent condition, with just a few light scratches on the top plate. Running well.

DIAL : The white signed enamel dial, with Turkish numerals, is in perfect condition. Fancy gilt hands, with old repair at the collar of the minute.

SILVER INNER CASE : Full London hallmarks for 1855, maker’s marks EB. The stem bears the same year mark.
Very good condition throughout, with just light scratches. 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.  Again all in very good condition.

SILVER/SHELL THIRD CASE : The construction is of a brass base with silver rims and tortoiseshell covering.
In unusually fine condition with no restoration, and a wonderful colour.  There is no shell missing and only one short crack (on the bezel at the neck). Just 2 silver pins missing from the bezel and 2 from the back.

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.