Triple cased verge by George Prior, London, for the Ottoman market

Stock No. 1416
George Prior
London, c1790
Leather & gilt triple cases, 72 mm.
Verge

£950

An English verge, with original enamel dial with Turkish numerals, in gilt pair cases, with leather covered outer third case. Made for the Ottoman market.

MOVEMENT : Gilt verge movement, the engraved and pierced balance cock. Four very ornate crested tulip pillars and large silver regulator disk. Signed “Geo. Prior, London” and numbered “21503”.

In good condition and running well.

DIAL : White enamel dial, signed and with Turkish numerals. In quite good condition, with no repairs but a light hairline from the centre towards 2, and some damage around the edge. Good 18th century steel beetle and poker hands.

INNER CASE : Gilt brass, with, maker ‘s mark IR.

In good condition, with wear to the gilding around the bandm, and to the stem and bow. The stem has been reattached. The hinge and the high dome crystal are fine and the bezel closes correctly.

MIDDLE CASE : Gilt brass pair case with engraved rims to bezel and back.

In very good condition, with just some wear to the gilding. The hinge, catch button and catch are fine and the case closes correctly.

OUTER CASE : Black leather over a wooden shell.

In good unrestored condition. There is a small piece of leather missing from the lid, near the stem, and at the hinge on the case. The hinge, catch button and catch are fine and the case closes correctly.

George Prior is listed in London between 1765 and 1812. Like his son Edward, who succeeded him, Prior specialized in watches for the Eastern market and was making verge watches of 18th century style, still popular in this market, into the 19th century.