French gold pocket watch with armorial case back Circa 1838-1919

Gold open faced pocket watch
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A French 18 carat yellow gold open faced pocket watch with armorial case back, dating between 1838 and 1919. This watch features a hand wound mechanical movement with lever escapement. The white enamel dial displays Roman numerals for the hours, an outer chemin de fer (railway) minute track with Arabic numerals at five minute intervals, a subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o’clock, and Louis XV style hands. The case is made of 18 carat yellow gold. The case back is of exceptional heraldic interest, engraved with a full armorial composition crowned with a helmet and bearing a phylactery inscribed Stella Duce, suggesting a distinguished family commission or personal dedication. The watch is fitted with a yellow gold cuvette in 18 carat gold. The case bears the French horsehead hallmark, confirming use in the French Departments and dating the piece to between 1838 and 1919. Accompanied by an 18 carat yellow gold and metal giletière (waistcoat) chain with silver medal in 800 thousandths silver, gross weight 17.5 g
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Diameter: 41 mm
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Weight watch: 58 g.
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Weight chain: 17.5 g.
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Signed: No name
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The white enamel dial shows age related cracking and needs restoration. Despite the cracks on the enamel surface, the dial maintains its original charm and readability. The chain shows signs of age, with previous repairs and some damage.