Fine French 18K gold open faced lever chronometer Circa 1910

Gold open faced keyless lever watch by Leroy & Cie
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A very fine French 18 carat gold open faced keyless lever pocket chronometer that obtained a First Class rating at Besançon Observatory timing contest with 217 points and a Gold Medal, circa 1910. Matte gilt movement, stamped with the Besançon viper’s head mark, 17 jewels, wolf’s tooth winding, straight-line lever escapement, anibal brass Guillaume balance, blued steel Breguet balance spring, index regulator. Gold hinged cuvette engraved with the chronometer trial details. d. White enamel with Arabic numerals, outer minute track, subsidiary seconds dial and later gilt hands. Polished case, the back engraved with initials RH, the interior with engraved presentation inscription. Dial, case, cuvette and movement signed.
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Diameter: 49.5 mm
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Signed: L. Leroy & Cie
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The punch mark in form of a viper’s head is applied by the Observatory of Besançon on watches that were successful at the timing contest and received the Bulletin de Première classe.