Dutch 20K gold watch with a filigree floral design Circa 1650

Gold open faced verge watch
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A very fine Dutch gold open faced verge pocket watch, circa 1650-1675. The outer surface of the case is floral pierced and engraved over an inner layer of basse taille enamel, a later pendant. White enamel dial with Roman hours, a translucent green enamel centre and single hand. Signed full plate movement, abundantly ornamented, verge escapement, gut and fusee, blued screws, three arm brass balance, the gilt balance cock is also ornamented.
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Signed: Claude Pascal A La Haye
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Basse taille is an enamelling technique in which the artist creates a low relief pattern in metal, usually silver or gold, by engraving or chasing. The entire pattern is created in such a way that its highest point is lower than the surrounding metal. A translucent enamel is then applied to the metal, allowing light to reflect from the relief and creating an artistic effect. It was used in the late Middle Ages, and then again in the 17th century.