Champleve Verge by Charles Cabrier

An early English verge with original champleve dial, in silver pair cases.

MOVEMENT : Gilt verge movement, the engraved and pierced winged balance cock with wide ‘D’d shaped foot.. Four fine tulip pillars, the same style favoured by Tompion. Signed “CABRIER, LONDON”. Numbered “311”. In good condition and working.

DIAL : Silver champleve dial, in good condition. Signed “CABRIER, LONDON” on the central disc. Early gilt hands (unmatched).
The case catch, through the dial at 6, is missing the small thumb piece, so although the movement clicks into the case, a pin is needed to push the catch to swing the movement back out.

INNER CASE : Silver, with no hallmarks, but with maker’s mark IW and serial number 311.
In reasonable condition, with a few light bruises and wear to the hinge (one sleeve absent). The pendant has been reattached and the bow is a replacement. The high dome bull’s eye crystal is good, with just a couple of small chips right on the bezel.

OUTER CASE : Silver pair case. Again with no hallmarks but marked with the movement serial number, 311. Worn engraving to the bezel and band on the back.
The hinge is a little worn, but the catch button and catch are fine and the case closes correctly. But the silver is in poor condition. Repairs around the edge of the back, a small hole in the centre and more damage around the catch button.

Charles Cabrier (I), the first of a family of fine London watchmakers throughout the 18th century, is recorded in the Clockmakers’ Company from 1698, and died in 1726.
Based on the pillars and shape of the balance cock, this watch is early, probably from about 1700.