English gold pair cased quarter repeating watch Circa 1770

Gold verge open faced watch
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An exquisite pair-cased verge pocket watch with quarter repeater and bloodstone decoration, circa 1770.
The outer case – 18k gold/bloodstone, large diamond thumbpiece. The inner case – 18k gold, large diamond thumbpiece, rear bell, signed movement protection cap.
Enamel dial, full plate movement, chain/fusee, two hammers, three-arm steel balance.
This exquisitely finished pocket watch has a strikingly opulent outer case made of a gold mounted heliotrope shell with open work edge and lavish, finely chased gold volute and rocaille decor.
The heavy inner case also has a pierced edge and is decorated with volute scrolls and a cartouche with mascaron; the back is engraved with a bird.
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Diameter: 49 mm
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Weight: 138 g
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Signed:  Robert & Peter Higgs  London
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Records show that watchmakers Robert & Peter Higgs worked at London’s Sweetings Alley in 1770.