English gold open faced cylinder watch in pair cases Circa 1777

Gold pair cased pocket watch by Benjamin Gray & Justin Vulliamy
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A fine double-cased English pocket watch from London with cylinder escapement, circa 1777. The watch’s outer case is crafted from 18k gold and showcases an engraved monogram encircled by a frame of rocaille and flowers. The inner case is also made of 18k gold and boasts a smooth finish. The enamel dial features black Roman numerals, a black outer minute track with Arabic numeral five-minute markers, and blued steel beetle and poker hands. The full plate movement includes chain/fusee, flat three-arm steel balance, and cylinder escapement.
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Diameter: 47 mm
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Weight: 108 g
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Signed: Benjamin Gray & Justin Vulliamy London
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Justin Vulliamy was a skilled watchmaker born in Switzerland. He became well-known in London for his excellent craftsmanship. In 1730, he formed a partnership with Benjamin Gray, who was a watchmaker for King George II. Later on, he married Gray’s daughter, Mary, and worked alongside him in their manufactory located in Pall Mall, London. After Gray’s passing in 1764, Vulliamy took over the family business and focused on creating precision pendulum clocks. His son, Benjamin Vulliamy, followed in his footsteps and became a watchmaker as well. From 1775, he managed the technical operations of Vulliamy & Sons’ manufactory.