Description
This cross shaped, pre-balance hair-spring ‘stackfreed’ pendant watch is almost entirely made out of ivory, with the exception of some indispensable iron parts such as two hinges, pivots and a mainspring.
This pendant watch consists of a three-body case, presenting exceptionally detailed (for that time) hand pierced ivory depictions.
The frontside of the watch shows a representation of Maria with baby Jesus accompanied by an angel on both sides, residing underneath three Gothic arches. The back side depicts Maria and Jezus again, now accompanied by the three kings (the Biblical Magi). The main body of the case, housing the movement, shows a pattern of floral decorations all around.
The ivory shows thin hairline cracks throughout, yet remains strong and sturdy with both sides opening and closing correctly.
The watch features a single-hand roman numeral dial which is adorned with decorations on all fours sides.
The movement remains in a likewise unaltered condition corresponding to the rest of the watch. No restorations have been completed, inevitably resulting in a non-running movement. All parts are present, and as far as we can see, all pivots are intact.
There’s still a small piece of the original fusee ‘chain’ present, which most likely has been made out of ‘catgut’ (a type of cord that is prepared from the natural fiber found in the walls of animal intestines).
We would label this timepiece as capable of running, if taken into restoration by a specialist. Considering its historical significance and the originality of its unaltered condition, we would advise leaving it as it is.
A rare chance to acquire a seldomly offered ivory crucifix pendant watch in all original condition.
Note that the dial is placed with four iron screws of which the left one has been replaced with a newer screw.
The dimensions of the cross are as follows:
– Width is 60,8 millimieters
– Length is 79,3 millimieters (full length including pendant 101,3 millimeters)
– Height is 30,8 millimeters
– Dial diameter is 27,5 millimeters
Weight: 111 grams.
A CITES pre-Convention certificate for the ivory is present.
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More information, pictures and video’s can be send upon request.
Feel free to ask us whatever question you have about this timepiece.
Please note that all our watches are bank stored, therefore we handle a 24 to 48 hour processing time between payment and shipment.