English fine, rare and large gold lever watch Circa 1897

Rare and large gold open faced keyless lever watch
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An English fine, rare and large gold open faced keyless lever watch, circa 1897, gilded three-quarter plate movement, ratched tooth lever escapement, bimetallic compensation balance, the raised going barrel decoratively engraved with scrolling foliage, signed By Appointment to the Queen, Charles Frodsham, Late of 84, Strand, 115, New Bond St, London.
Off-white enamel Willistype dial, Roman numerals, outer minute ring, Arabic subsidiary seconds dial at 6, blued steel spade hands, signed and numbered Chas Frodsham, London.
Plain gold case, gold hand-set button to the band with gold olivette, gold pendant and bow, plain gold cuvette, case and dome with maker’s mark HMF for Harrison Mill Frodsham, hallmarked London 1897.
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Diameter: 58 mm
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Signed: By Appointment to the Queen Charles Frodsham Late of 84 Strand 115 New Bond St London
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Although classic in design, this watch is of exceptional quality and substantial in both size and weight. The slightly off-white dial, which is of Willis type and which T. J. Willis advertised as his ‘Venetian’style, and case are beautifully made and typical of the finest production of the period.  The generous proportions of the watch also ensure a pleasing ‘feel’ in the hand. With a three-quarter plate movement, the Frodsham records note that the ébauche was supplied by Haswell.  

Frodshams opened their new shop at 115 New Bond Street in 1895. At the time, Bond Street was becoming increasingly fashionable and already earning a reputation as a center for luxury goods.