French 18 carat gold historic verge pocket watch Circa 1770

Unique watch with a portrait of Catherine II of Russia
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A unique, historically important gold pocket watch with the portrait of Catherine II of Russia, made by Charles Dutertre in Paris, France, circa 1770. The  Louis XV case of this watch was crafted from four different colours of 18 carat gold and features a diamond set face and a raised portrait of the Empress of Russia on the back. The original enamel dial features an outer minutes track with Arabic 5 minute numerals, Roman hour numerals, diamonds and hands set with diamonds. The numbered movement is fitted with a verge escapement.

The movement is signed.
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Diameter: 44 mm
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Weight: 66 g
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Signed: Charles Dutertre
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The extremely rare item presented here was probably made around 1770 for the Russian Tsar’s court, either directly for the Empress or as a gift watch for the Tsar’s court.
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Dutertre
Charles Dutertre (active approximately from 1758 to the 1790’s) was a major Parisian clockmaker who became a master on November 22, 1758. He was renowned for creating early Louis XVI style clocks, often featuring gilt bronze cases. His clients included the Marquise de Langeac and the Prince Charles de Lorraine.