Fine Swiss 14K rose gold open faced lever watch Circa 1880

Rose gold pocket watch by J.J. Badollet
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A fine Swiss 14 carat rose gold open faced lever pocket watch, circa 1880. Bridge movement, a piston tooth lever escapement and screw compensation balance. The cuvette is engraved with prize medals, a coat of arms, a banner saying Viribus Unitis (United Forces) and Ehren Diplom Wien 1873. White enamel dial with Roman hours, an outer minute track, Arabic five minute numerals, sunk subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock and spade & whip hands. The case with an engine turned back, polished bezels and band. Dial and cuvette signed, case and movement numbered.
Diameter: 50 mm
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Weight: 81 g
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Signed: J.J. Badollet Genève
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The Badollets were a family of excellent Swiss watchmakers for several generations. A branch of the family worked in Paris from 1712 to 1872. There were branches in England and a watchmaker named Paul Badollet was working in New York around 1798. In 1779, Jean Jacques Badollet (1756-1829) founded J.J. Badollet in Geneva. Jean Moise Badollet (1811-1854) was the owner from 1828 to 1854. He operated under the name J.M. Badollet and from 1837, under J.M. Badollet & Cie. This name was retained even after his death. Around 1890, the company name was changed back to J.J. Badollet. The production of the ‘Charmilles’ pocket watch according to the Potter patents falls during this period. This enterprise failed in 1895, and in 1896, the company was liquidated. Another year later, Colomb & Balmer took over the Geneva facilities, also retaining the J.J. Badollet trademarks. From 1923, the name was Geneva Watch Co., Successor to J.J. Badollet.