French round neck watch with lid and signed verge escapement Circa 1640

Round neck watch with beautiful rock crystal case
–
A rare early round neck watch with lid, made by Claude Pelletier in Roanne, France, circa 1640. The fantastically beautiful rock crystal full hunter case of this watch is elaborately faceted and the patinated dial is florally engraved, has Roman numerals for the hours and blued iron hands. The movement has an early verge escapement from around 1650, a silver balance cock and an iron balance.
The movement is signed.
–
Diameter: 45 mm
–
Weight: 81 g
–
Signed: Duhamel, à Paris
–
Duhamel
The important watchmaker family Duhamel was active in Rouen, Blois as well as in Paris and Geneva, recorded from 1601 to about 1700. Several rock crystal clocks are known, including extremely rare gold specimens, including those in the Sandberg Collection.
–
Patinated dial
A patinated dial refers to a dial that has developed desirable ageing or discolouration over time. This patina can occur naturally due to exposure to the elements or can be intentionally induced to give the dial a unique, vintage appearance. Patination can add character and value to a pocket watch, as it signifies the passage of time and can create a distinctive aesthetic that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts.