Very fine French gold and enamel open faced verge Circa 1750

Gold and enamel keywound pocket watch by J.F. Morel
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A very fine and rare French 18 carat gold and enamel open faced keywound verge watch, circa 1750. Gilt finished full plate verge movement, chain fusée, finely pierced and engraved balance cock. White enamel dial with Roman numerals and gilt Louis XV hands. Turquoise enamel bezel with applied gold floral decoration, the case back centred by a painted polychrome enamel scene depicting a lady, framed by translucent green enamel over gold paillons resembling engine turning, small white enamel cartouches alternating with painted enamel and applied gold floral decoration. Movement signed and numbered.
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Diameter: 46.5 mm
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Signed: J.F. Morel Paris
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A fine example of watches featuring a so-called ‘paillon’ decoration. The very thin gold paillons or flakes arranged under translucent green enamel create simulate engine turning, a very unusual ornamental style.