English pinchbeck pocket watch in tortoiseshell pair cases Circa 1760

Pair cased pocket watch by John Ellicott (British, 1706–1772)
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An English pinchbeck, tortoiseshell, enamel pair-cased pocket watch, circa 1760.
Gilt full plate movement with cylinder escapement, pierced and engraved balance cock, plain three-armed balance, diamond end stone, silver regulation, and baluster pillars. Enamel dial with Roman radial hours, outer minutes track with Arabic five minutes numerals, and Poker & Beetle gold hands. Pinchbeck cases: polished plain inner and outer case in tortoiseshell design. Signed on movement: Jno. Ellicott / LONDON / 1270, and on case: Jno. Ellicott, London.
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Diameter: 54 mm
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Signed: Jno. Ellicott, London
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Pinchbeck is a type of alloy made of copper and zinc that was popular in the 18th century as a substitute for gold. It has a similar colour and lustre to gold but is less expensive. The cases are likely made of pinchbeck to provide a protective layer for the watch’s movement.