Swiss 18K rose gold split seconds chronograph Circa 1885

Rose gold open faced lever watch
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A Swiss 18 carat rose gold open faced split seconds chronograph pocket watch made by Patek Philippe in Geneva, circa 1885. Retailed by N. Matson & Co. in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A. The movement with a lever escapement. White enamel dial with Roman hours, an outer minute track, fifth of a second divisions and Arabic five minute numerals, a 30 minute register at 12 o’clock, subsidiary seconds at 6 and blued hands. A plain case with hinged back. Dial signed by the retailer, case and movement signed by the watchmaker, cuvette engraved Made for N. Matson & Co Chicago by Patek, Philippe & Co Geneva, case and movement with matching numbers. Comes with an Extract from the Archives confirming the date of sale on October 19th, 1886.
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Diameter: 50 mm
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Signed: Patek, Philippe & Co Geneva
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This timepiece exemplifies the fervour and demand for complicated watches in the American market in the late 19th century. Patek Philippe began producing split seconds chronographs as tool watches for industrial purposes, such as timing railways and sporting events like horse racing.
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N. Matson & Co. was a luxury jewellery boutique in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A. Many renowned retailers ordered complicated watches from Patek Philippe at this time, including Tiffany & Co., Spaulding, Bailey Banks & Biddle.