Exquisite French gold open faced lever pocket watch Circa 1850

Gold watch by Le Roy & Fils
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This heavy 18 carat gold Parisian open faced pocket watch, dating back to circa 1850, is a remarkable piece of horological craftsmanship. Its high-quality bridge movement, key wind, lever escapement with three gold wheels, and screw compensation balance, along with two winding barrels, ensure a precise and reliable timekeeping experience.
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The case of the watch features a later engraved and modern painted portrait of a lady. The watch has a ribbed band.
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Upon opening the watch, one is greeted by an exquisite engine turned silver dial, adorned with Roman radial hours and an outer minutes track. A subsidiary dial for the seconds at six o’clock, while the blued steel Breguet hands add a classic touch to the overall design.
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This exceptional pocket watch not only serves as a testament to the artistry of 19th-century Parisian watchmaking but also stands as a timeless symbol of sophistication and precision. Signed dial and cuvette.
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Diameter: 54 mm
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Weight: 149 g
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Signed: Le Roy & Fils, Palais-Royal, Paris
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Le Roy & Fils. In 1785, the company was first established in Paris, France by Basile Charles Le Roy (1765-1839) at the Palais Royal, 13 & 15 Galerie Montpensier, which remained the family’s address for more than a century. Le Roy was much valued by the royal family and the court and was always welcome at the Louvre. He was famous for his perfect and marvellous clocks and wall clocks, which were very popular in a great number of palaces and stately homes all over Europe.

During the French Revolution from September 1793 to July 1794, Le Roy used the anagram EYLOR, because his real name was too closely associated with the French aristocracy. This signature is still present on the dials and plates of clocks created in that period.

Le Roy’s son Charles-Louis learned the art of watchmaking from his father and in 1828 became his partner. The company name changed to Le Roy & Fils, Horloger des Ducs de Chartres et de Bourbon puis Horloger du Roi et du Duc d’Orléans (clockmaker to the king and the Duke of Orléans). From 1835 on, the company expanded in all directions and was appointed Horlogers de la Marine. it was extremely successful for many years and at times had a staff of 50 employees.

In 1854, Le Roy & Fils set themselves up in London, to conquer the English court. A branch was opened in Regent Street, to be followed by another in New Bond Street. In 1863, Queen Victoria issued the ‘Royal Warrant of Appointment’ to Leroy & Sons, which entitled the company to use the highly coveted title ‘watchmakers to the Queen’. It was a great honour for a French company because Le Roy is the only non-English house to carry that title.
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Contains about 80 grams of 18 carat gold.
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Reference 0043000