Jean II Rousseau, Geneva, circa 1640 An important one-handed...

Hammer

£62,000

Jean II Rousseau, Geneva, circa 1640
An important one-handed pre-balanced verge watch in the form of a tulip bud. The case in gilt brass and silver. The chapter ring with radial Roman numerals. The gilt brass case applied with fine engraved view of a city centre. The naturalistic engraved lug resembling a flower stalk. The three hinged lids set with polished rock crystal panels.
The movement oval full plate with fusee verge escapement, ratchet wheel set up with blued steel spring, plain two-arm iron balance.
The movement signed 'J Rousseau.'

Similar examples exist in the British Museum and the Patek Philippe Museum, Geneva. The exhibition 'Timepieces signed Rousseau,' May 11 to October 13, 2012 at the Patek Philippe Museum, displayed around 30 of the 60 known watches signed Rousseau. All watches are part of private collections or owned by museums.

Jean II Rousseau (1606-1684) came from a renowned watchmaking family in Geneva. He created a number of important clocks such as those in the form of a crucifix or a skull (memento mori) as well as astronomical clocks.

From a private collection

Dimensions:
5.1 cm. (H) x 2.9 cm. (W)