Small Swiss enamel centre seconds Chinese market

This is a beautiful small centre seconds watch, with cylinder escapement, in a fine pearl set silver gilt case, with painted enamel to the back. It was made for the Chinese market probably by the Bovet Fleurier company, around 1860.

MOVEMENT : Nice quality gilt cylinder movement, jewel endstone and blued steel screws. Very good condition. As is often seen on these watch movements, the steel ring at the centre of the mainspring barrel (stop work) is missing.

The movement is protected by a hinged glass cover, which is hinged at 6.

The movement is running well.

DIAL : A white enamel dial, in perfect condition. Centre seconds, and gold coloured hands. All in fine condition.

CASE : This is a wonderful case in pearl set silver gilt and enamel.

The front bezel, back border, stem and bow are all set with tiny seed pearls. These are complete, with none missing or obviously damaged.

The back of the case is set with a charming enamel plaque, painted with a couple in conversation at a well head, with Swiss Alps in the background. This scene is surrounded by an inner border of orange scrolls and an outer border of green guilloche enamel. The enamel is in very good condition, with just a few light surface scratches but no chips or repairs.

The case is in very good condition. The hinges are fine and the back cover opens when the button on the stem is pressed. It also snaps shut correctly. The crystal has a small scratch.

Watches by Bovet Fleurier of Switzerland were sent to China up until about 1864.