French/Swiss gold important 8 day pocket watch Circa 1790

Gold open faced pocket watch with date by André Hessen
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An important French/Swiss pocket watch with 8 day movement and date indicator, circa 1790/1890.
Probably unique contract work by the firm of Patek Philippe.
18 carat rose gold polished case with fine engraved noble family crest on reverse side depicting the coat of arms of the Dutch Oosting family. Signed enamel dial with Arabic numerals, date indicator and gold Poker & Beetle hands. Frosted gilt bridge movement with large hanging barrel, cylinder escapement and monometallic screw balance.
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Diameter: 59 mm
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Weight: 113 g
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Signed: André Hessen, Paris
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We can only try to guess the story of this extraordinary watch: The Dutch noble family Oosting was probably a very good customer of Patek Philippe. In all likely hood this watch was a treasured family heirloom that for whatever reason was at some time badly damaged. Restoring the piece would have meant a considerable expense; it is possible that after consultation with the Patek Philippe experts it was decided to leave the watch in its present condition, but to fit it with a custom-made new movement. Since the watch is quite large, it allows for an 8-day movement with an extra-large barrel; it is now an extremely elegant typical Directoire style watch fitted with a bespoke Patek Philippe precision movement dating to the late 19th century. Further research might certainly provide fascinating insight into the history of this remarkable piece.
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André Hessen
André Hessen worked as clockmaker to the king’s brother in Paris from 1775 to 1790; he later went to Stockholm. Today many of his creations are kept in Paris and Stockholm. Hessen also published the paper “Mém. sur l’Horlogerie”.