French gilt metal watch made in the form of a book Circa 1850

Gilt metal and ivory book shaped watch
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A French gilt metal and ivory watch, circa 1850, made in the 17th century style in the form of a book. This rare watch features a gilded rectangular movement with verge escapement, a decoratively engraved balance cock, a plain flat three arm balance with a short hair spring, fusee and chain, and flat backed baluster pillars. The gilded rectangular dial is engraved with a sun indicating the hours in an aperture above, a crescent moon engraved at the base of the dial and an aperture for winding.
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The gilded case is designed to resemble a book, with the front engraved with a female figure carrying an hourglass and a putti at her feet, whilst the back displays the figure of Hermes, each set within a landscape and surrounded by intricately engraved scrolling framework. The corners are engraved with foliage and birds, while the left side of the case mimics a book spine, bearing the signature Reichardt Ledertz in Strasburg, 1641. Inside the lid, panels are engraved depicting a vase of flowers, two birds, and two cornucopia of fruit, with stained ivory simulating the page edges.
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Dimensions: 52.5 mm x 44 mm
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Signed: Reichardt Ledertz in Strasburg, 1641
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Movement is running. The dial exhibits minor scuffs, scratches, and light indentations on the outer edge. The case shows signs of light scuffs, scratches, and some wear to the gilding. The ivory panel on the bottom edge has a chip near the hinge, and the side panel has a crack.
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Both Loomes and Tardy identify Richard Ledertz as active in Strasbourg around 1630, suggesting that the 19th century maker of this piece likely opted to sign it with the name of a recognised 17th century maker.