French silver pair cased oignon watch with alarm Circa 1680

Silver early single handed verge watch
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An early, single handed oignon pocket watch with alarm made by Jean Hubert the elder in Rouen, France, circa 1680. This pair cased watch, crafted from silver, features a shagreen covered protective case, and a pierced and engraved inner case decorated with bird motifs and squirrels. The beautifully decorated silver dial features inlaid black Roman hour numerals, half hour markers, an inner minute track, an innermost revolving alarm disk with Arabic numerals and a steel pointer, a single steel hand and florally engraved center. The movement is fitted with two barrels for the movement and alarm, a verge escapement, vase pillars and a pierced barrel.
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Diameter: 58 mm
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Weight: 194 g
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Signed: Jean Hubert Rouen
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The item presented here is a museum collector’s watch from the hand of the famous Jean Hubert the elder, master since 1652.

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Hubert
The Hubert dynasty was a family of renowned watch and clockmakers based in Rouen, France, working during the 17^th century. They were known for producing high quality, often decorative timepieces. Several members were active in the guild and corporation of watchmakers. Their work, characterized by intricate designs and skilled craftsmanship, is featured in major museum collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Jean Hubert the elder was active from approximately 1645 until 1695 and was known for fine watches, with examples of his work featuring crystal, gold and enamel.