Swiss gilt, enamel and diamond set beetle form watch Circa 1865

An unusual and highly detailed French gilded metal, enamel and diamond set pendant watch in the form of a beetle, circa 1865. Gilt heart form movement with a cylinder escapement, plain three arm balance and blued steel screws. Small, concealed white enamel dial with black Roman hour numerals, an outer minute track and blued steel spade hands. The highly detailed beetle shaped case with a black enamel ridged head, diamond set eyes and collar, green enamelled wings edged in rose cut diamonds, the detailed base of the body is hinged to reveal the movement and an inner frame for a momento. Cuvette signed. Comes with a fancy woven link chain and the original key.
–
Diameter: 45 mm
–
Signed: Exposition 1867 B. Haas Snel F’sseur De S. M. L’Empereur Paris
–
This watch is a lovely example of a form watch, which was popular in the 19th century. By offering something different next to the more traditional styles of jewellery, they were admired for their intricate details and unusual forms such as animals, flora and skulls. Evoking the appearance of a June bug, a type of scarab (or beetle), this little timepiece demonstrates an exquisite use of enamel and engraving techniques. The watch is engraved with the information that B. Haas Snel had a Royal Warrant to supply timepieces to Napoleon.