Unusual half hunter cased gold Lepine cylinder repeater
Stock No. 2003
Lepine
Paris, c1820
Gold half hunter case, 45 mm.
Cylinder escapement, quarter repeating
Sold
An early 19th century Paris watch, quarter repeating, with cylinder escapement, in a very unusual half hunter gold case.
MOVEMENT : A fine quality gilt movement with cylinder escapement, and quarter repeating with two polished steel hammers striking two steel gongs. The cylinder escapement features a Breguet type parachute shock protection, and a temperature compensation curb.
The quarter repeating function is activated by lifting the button on the stem, turning it 90 degrees, and then pushing down. Striking once for each hour and then twice for each quarter.
The movement is in good condition, and is running well. It is repeating correctly.
DIAL : Signed silver dial with engine turned engraving to the centre.
The dial is in good condition, with a few light marks and very light scratches.
Blued steel Breguet type hands, the hour having a double moon to accommodate the half hunter window.
CASE : The gold case has engine turning to the back, front and band. The inside of the cover is stamped with a case number 9128 and the French gold mark for 18 carat (this mark was in use between 1817 and 1838).
The inner cuvette (also gold) is signed :
Lepine
Hger. DU ROI A PARIS
No. 2428
The stem is also stamped with a gold mark but the bow is a base metal.
The case is in good condition. All hinges are good and both covers and cuvette all close correctly. There is some wear to the engine turning to both back and front, and some blue enamel is missing from the chapter ring around the crystal. There are some scratches to the back. The crystal is fine.