French silver astronomical watch of museum quality Circa 1670

An important verge pocket watch with a full calendar
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A French important astronomical verge pocket watch of museum quality with full calendar, moon phase, moon age and planets of the day in a tortoiseshell-covered outer case, circa 1670. This astronomical verge pocket watch by Gebhart is in marvellous condition. The dial is decorated with delicate floral ornaments; the symbols for the months with names and lengths are visible in two windows at 12 o’clock and are as exquisitely engraved as the expressive face of the moon phase. This is truly an outstanding timepiece – in technical design and its exceptional artistic execution. Silver and brass outer case, tortoiseshell covered (hairlines), stud decoration. Silver inner case. Gilt dial, engraved foliate scrolls, applied silver chapter rings. Full plate movement, chain/fusee, verge escapement, ratchet wheel set up with blued steel spring, two-arm iron balance without balance spring.
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Diameter: 52 mm
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Weight: 113 g
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Signed: Johann Jacob Gebhart, Strasbourg
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According to the records of Jürgens Abeler, Johann Jacob Gebhart was born in 1631 in Strasbourg. He married in 1661 and served as a member of the court of the guild 1663/1671. The Louvre keeps a rock crystal watch dating from circa 1700 in Paris.