English silver oval pre hairspring verge pocket watch Circa 1637

Silver oval watch by John Ramsay
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A rare, English oval single hand verge pocket watch, circa 1637.
Gilt full plate movement signed John Ramsay Londre, pierced and engraved balance cock, worm and wheel set-up. Silver dial, Roman numerals, engraved centre depicting a landscape, exterior with engraved floral decoration, and blued steel single hand. Silver polished case with a seven-piece hinge and ring pendant.
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Dimensions: 38 x 32 mm
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Signed: John Ramsay Londre
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John Ramsay (c. 1626-1697) was a prominent horologist who lived and worked in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was known for his high-quality clocks and watches, which were sought after by aristocrats and royalty throughout Europe.
Ramsay was appointed clockmaker to King Charles II in 1676 and was responsible for maintaining the clocks at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh. He was also a member of the Clockmakers’ Company in London, a prestigious organization of master clockmakers.
Ramsay was renowned for his skill in designing and building intricate timepieces, including clocks with astronomical functions and watches with repeaters. His work was highly regarded in his lifetime and continues to be prized by collectors today.