Unique English 18K gold complicated chronometer Circa 1902

Gold complex pocket chronometer
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An important, unique and complex English 18 carat gold open faced minute repeating precision pocket chronometer with one minute tourbillon, perpetual calendar and moon phases made by Dent in London, circa 1902. The frosted gilt ¾ plate movement with screwed chatons, a spring detent escapement, raised barrel engraved with the honour cyphers To Him the Late Emperor of Russia (Alexander III 1845-1894) und To Her Late Majesty (Queen Victoria 1819-1901), two hammers, two gongs, chain and fusee, finely polished steel Nielsen type 2 tourbillon cage with a counterpoised rose gold weight and polished screws, a gold screwed compensation balance and free sprung blued balance spring. A gold cuvette.

Off-white enamel dial, signed by Willis on the reverse, with Roman hours, an outer minute track, subsidiary dials for the months with the leap year cycle and concentric 30 hour power reserve indication at 12 o’clock, the days of the week at 9, the date at 3, phases of the moon with concentric moon age and auxiliary seconds at 6, the cobalt blue enamelled moon phase disc with inlaid golden moon and stars, and blued spade hands. The plain case with maker’s mark RN for Robert Benson North (founder of North & Sons 1917-1933, successors to Nicole, Nielsen & Co.), a turnable pendant and slide to activate the repeating mechanism. Dial signed, movement signed and numbered.
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Diameter: 65 mm
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Weight: 273 g
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Signed: Dent 33 Cockspur St. London
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This watch symbolizes the quintessence of English watchmaking. Complicated timekeepers of this level are rarely seen. A piece such as the present piece embodies the ultimate highlight of any top quality collection.