English self-striking watch in a shagreen covered case Circa 1680

Brass open faced pocket watch by Edward East
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An English rare hour self-striking verge pocket watch in a shagreen covered case, circa 1680. The watch features a brass fire gilt à goutte case with applied shagreen, sound holes, and a large lateral hinge. The enamel dial showcases radial Roman hour markers, radial Arabic minute markers, and blued Poker and beetle hands. The movement is a full plate design, a keywind mechanism with applied floral decorations and a fire gilt finish. It is signed and equipped with a chain/fusee system, pierced flower head pillars, one hammer, a locking plate, a verge escapement, a three-arm steel balance, and a very finely engraved pierced balance cock.
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Diameter: 52 mm
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Weight: 128 g
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Signed: Edward East, London
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Edward East was a watchmaker for Charles I of England in 1602. He succeeded David Ramsay and was known for his remarkable skills. In 1618, the Goldsmiths Company sent Richard Rogers to teach, and Edward East was one of the original assistants to the Clockmakers Company. He was named in their charter and held positions as a subordinate before being elected Master in 1645 and again in 1652. During his time, he resided in Pall Mall, London, near the tennis court, which is where the King became aware of him. His Majesty often provided one of East’s watches as a prize for games played at the mall. Later, Edward East moved to Fleet Street, where he was recorded living in 1635. According to the London Gazette of January 22 and 26, 1690, he was based at the Sun, outside Temple Bar in The Strand. Edward East probably died in 1696, and Jeremie East, possibly one of his sons, was acquitted by the Clockmakers Company in 1641.