French 1/4 Hour Repeating Automaton Pocket Watch

This French automaton quarter repeater pocket watch is a horological treasure. Dating to the early 1800s, the case is crafted of 18K gold with an open face and engine-turned trim.

The watch houses two impressive complications, a quarter-hour repeater mechanism in concert with automation in the dial. The plunge lever, when pushed, will activate a chime on two gongs, audibly announcing the time to the previous quarter hour. Simultaneously the automation comes to life, a most engaging aspect of this extraordinary pocket watch.

The beautiful dial features a background of blued steel color contrasted by an engraved gilt architectural setting of columns, swags, urns, and a lyre. Red and green enamelled florals add colorful accent.  Central to the scene is the lovely maiden seated at the ready to spin her wool while two winged cherubs flanking the lyre above are poised to strike silvered bells with their silvered mallets. The figures spring into action upon activation, and the result is absolutely delightful. An extraordinary achievement of early horological skill and craftsmanship. An outer chapter ring of Arabic numerals and blued steel Breguet-style hands illustrate the time.

A key winding powers and sets the timepiece. The cuvette and the gilt filigree-centered movement plate are both signed Frances L’Hardy. And finally, this unique timepiece bears a full restoration and a one-year warranty.

Circa 1820