Rare 18ct Ruby and Diamond

Metal: 18k Gold, White Gold
Stone: Diamond, Ruby
Stone Cut: Round Cut
Weight: 36 g
Dimensions: Height: 1.58 in (40 mm) Width: 1.58 in (40 mm) Diameter: 1.58 in (40 mm)
Style: Retro
Place of Origin: Europe
Period: 1970-1979
Date of Manufacture: 1970
Condition: Excellent Wear consistent with age and use. Condition Report: Pristine condition with a diameter of 4cm / 40mm.


While the origin of this particularly unique piece remains a mystery, the brilliance and fine craftsmanship are without question. This small 18ct jewellery pocket watch houses elaborate, decorative silver mounting and bezels. There are 6 rubies at the front and 6 old European cut diamonds at the back. The outside of this one-of-a-kind piece is adorned with blue enamel and a colourful floral decoration ringed with gold-plated leaf. The interior uses a gold-plated dial of roman numerals to tell time with excellent balance and a total weight of 36 g. Our experts date this piece to the early 1970s.

The tradition of carrying around a pocket watch has been popular since at least the 14th century. It has continued well into our current era as a mark of a true gentleman. It wasn?t until after World War I that wristwatches came into fashion. Each watch has a unique design and style that speak to the craft house that produced the timepiece.

There are two pocket watch styles in wide use: open-face and hinged. This piece is hinged with a protective shell equally adorned with the interior face. This piece is meant for more formal attire and most likely would not be worn on a daily occasion due to the exquisite jewellery contents.

Condition Report: Pristine condition with a diameter of 4 cm

Provenance: From a private collection.

Literature:
Cf.:Barry S. Goldberg, The New Collector?s Guide to Pocket Watches: 4th Edition, 2017/ ISBN: 978-1549853180
Cf.:M. Cutmore, The Pocket Watch Handbook, 2002/ ISBN: 978-0715314623

See Description