English 18K yellow gold open faced pocket watch Circa 1835

Gold open faced key winding lever watch
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A fine English 18 carat yellow gold open faced pocket watch made by Litherland, Davies & Co. in Liverpool, circa 1835. It has a mechanical key winding, full plate, fire gilded brass movement with a chain driven fusee, and a compensated lever escapement. The movement is protected by a hinged gilt brass dust cover. The movement plate is signed and numbered Litherland Davies & Co. / Liverpool. The solid gold engine turned dial features applied rose gold Roman numerals for the hours, an engine turned subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o’clock, an outer minute track, and spade hands.
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The timepiece is housed in a round, three body, 18 carat solid yellow gold open faced case with a plain, polished reverse back cover, centring a vacant circular cartouche, a spherical pendant, and a circular suspension bow. It is stamped internally with English 18K gold hallmarks, case maker’s marks, and matching serial number.
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Diameter: 49 mm
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Weight: 96 g
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Signed: Litherland Davies & Co Liverpool
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Litherland, Davies & Co. was one of the premier horological manufacturers in Liverpool during the early to mid 19th century. The firm evolved directly from the landmark workshop established by Peter Litherland, who revolutionized English timekeeping with his 1792 patent for the rack lever escapement. By the 1830s, under the partnership of Litherland, Davies & Co., the firm transitioned to producing high precision English detached lever escapements. They combined these with compensated balance wheels and chain driven fusees to ensure constant torque and temperature compensation. This timepiece represents luxurious Georgian/early Victorian taste, pairing a heavy 18K gold case with a gold dial featuring contrasting applied rose gold numerals. The retention of its original hinged gilt dust cover and matching serial numbers confirms its outstanding original condition.