French 18K gold quarter repeating oignon watch Circa 1710

Gold repeating oignon pocket watch
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A repoussé oignon pocket watch with repeater made by the royal watchmaker Pierre Gaudron in Paris, France, circa 1710. The open faced case of this watch, which was crafted from 18 carat gold, has a high relief mythological scene on the back lid. The dial has white enamel cartouches with inner blue Roman hours and outermost Arabic five minute numerals, an outer minute track and iron hands, the center is decoratively engraved. The movement has a verge escapement, mock pendulum, steep and high fusee, an engraved barrel, exceptional pillars and repeats the quarter hours.
Movement signed.
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Diameter: 56 mm
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Weight: 192 g
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Signed: Gaudron Paris
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Gaudron
Pierre Gaudron is considered an outstanding watchmaker. He was the son of Antoine Gaudron I and brother of Antoine Gaudron II. Pierre was active in Paris between 1690 and 1730, making watches on behalf of the government. He was Court Watchmaker to the Duc d’Orleans and the King of France. Gold oignon watches are absolute rarities. As far as we know, only five are known, two of them in the Patek Philippe Museum and one watch in the Louvre. The fourth example was sold at auction and is in a private collection.