French gold verge watch with “repoussé” decoration Circa 1753

Open faced 22k gold pocket watch by Mercier, Paris/London
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A remarkable gold French pair-cased verge pocket watch with magnificent “repoussé” decoration, circa 1753.
The chased and engraved outer case is of supreme quality and decorated with a variety of scenes: In the centre of the back a Roman soldier with bow and quiver stands, with his arm raised, next to a well. Two swans, the philosopher Socrates or Plato, a hunting scene and the profile portrait of a gentlemen wearing period costume with a tricorn hat, powdered wig and a frock – all images are depicted in cartouches with volute ornaments around the edge of the case. The bezel on the front is reminiscent of the work done by the brothers Huaut – castle ruins, farmsteads, a bridge, a squirrel and a swan in alpine landscapes.
The case is French, the guild of Paris’ mark “O” for 1753-1754 has been stamped in the inner cover. Brian Loomes lists a Franciscus Mercier in the late 17th century, who moved from Paris to London and signed “Mercerius“.
22 carat gold outer case with “repoussé” decoration; 22 carat gold inner case; enamel white dial, Roman hours, Arabic minutes and decorative blued steel hands; full plate movement, chain/fusee and five-arm brass balance. Movement signed.
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Diameter: 47 mm
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Weight: 83 g
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Signed: Mercerius