Lot 277

French 45 x 72 mm, 137 g, circa 1650
An important and exceptionally rare gold and enamel lobed rock crystal watch with cosse-de-pois enamel decoration on the movement backplate
Case: rock crystal, firegilt brass frame. Dial: silver and polychrome enamel, single firegilt hand. Movm.: oval full plate movement, chain/fusee, verge escapement, ratchet wheel set up with blued steel spring, hog's bristol regulator, plain two-arm iron balance without balance spring.
At first glance the bevelled rock crystal lid and the cup have the appearance of a shining, large cut diamond. The tapering crystal panels on front and back reveal the marvellously embellished silver dial with translucent cobalt blue, emerald green and garnet-coloured enamel inlay work: A central vase full of flowers is flanked by multi-coloured parrots, while cherubs float above and below the hour ring. The movement is equally lavishly decorated with delicate floral engraving and a balance cock in a dragon-like shape. On the outside a graceful balustrade with moulded baluster pillars runs around the watch and conceals the view onto the movement.