Swiss gold watch with visible skeletonized movement Circa 1820

Gold open faced verge pocket watch
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A very fine Swiss, 18K gold pocket watch with visible skeletonized movement, circa 1820. A polished case, reeded band. White enamel dial, annular, Breguet numerals and outer minute divisions, centre disclosing the skeletonized going train. Blued steel lozenge hands. A gilt brass skeletonized movement, cylindrical pillars, fusee and chain, verge escapement, plain brass three-arm balance with flat balance spring, index regulator. Dial and movement signed, case numbered.
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Diameter: 53 mm
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Signed: Houriet & Fils  Neuchâtel
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Jacques-Frédéric Houriet (1743-1830) After a stay of nine years in Paris for work and study, Houriet settled in Le Locle, where he became an important horologist, working with his son and many other members of his immediate and extended family. The present watch is illustrated in Frederic Houriet – Le Pere de la Chronometrie Suisse, Jean-Claude Sabrier, Editions Simonin, 2006.