Mid 19thc. London Silver Pair Cased Watch

A mid 18thc. London watch, in unusual silver pair cases.

MOVEMENT : A gilt movement with a verge escapement, and engraved and pierced balance bridge, showing scrolls and a fish at the base and a ‘lace’ edge. Four square pillars, silver regulator disk and polished steel screws.

Signed Thos. Best and numbered 898.

All in reasonable condition, although there are a couple of old solder repairs to the table of the balance bridge. The movement is running well.

The ‘lace’ edge decoration to the balance bridge and plate was a popular form of decoration for London makers, but only used for a short period between about 1750 and 1770

DIAL : White enamel dial, in good condition, with no repairs, and just a few small scratches and some very small chips around the catch at 6.

Fancy gilt hands.

INNER CASE : Silver, with London hallmarks for 1766, and maker’s mark GH.

In reasonable condition throughout, with just one small dent near the catch, and some rubbing around the band. The hinge has one broken sleeve, but is still firm. The bezel snaps shut.

The stem and bow are worn, and the bow is distorted, but still strong and secure.

The high dome bull’s eye crystal is good, with light rubbing.

OUTER CASE : A silver pair case, decorated with repousse work to the bezel.

In good condition. The catch and hinge are fine and the bezel snaps shut correctly. The catch button has worn down but is still functional.

Thomas Best is listed in London, from before 1761 until 1790.