English silver tortoiseshell watch with under-painting Circa 1794

Silver verge pocket watch by J. Samson
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An English silver watch with an underpainted design, enclosed in a tortoiseshell case, circa 1794. This exquisite watch showcases a gilt English full plate verge movement, complete with a pierced and decorated balance bridge and cage. The enamel dial is equally stunning, boasting Roman radial hours, an arcaded minute ring with Arabic numerals for five-minute intervals, and blued hands. The centre of the dial features a captivating castle scene. Furthermore, the case is adorned with underpainted tortoiseshell that depicts a beautiful village and harbour scene.
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Diameter: 60 mm
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Signed: Samson, London
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The signature on the work is Samson, London. The marking includes the London assay office mark of a crowned leopard’s head, the London date letter of a small Roman t from 1794-95, the English quality mark for sterling of a lion passant, the King’s head, and the incuse letters I L. All of these marks are located on the inside back of the inner case.