German gold and black enamel verge Lépine watch Circa 1827

Black enamelled gold watch with chain and key  
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A  gold and enamel Lépine pocket watch with rare mourning decoration made in Germany, circa 1827. This watch crafted from 18 carat gold has an open faced and numbered black enamelled case with magnificent gold inlays, a central letter A with a crown and cross above. The cuvette with an inscription dated 1827 and a mourning dedication to Christmas 1827. The engine turned dial has black Roman hour numerals, outer minute divisions and Breguet hands. The full plate movement has a verge escapement. The watch comes with a matching black enamelled gold chain and key.
Box signed.
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Diameter: 43 mm
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Weight: 53 g
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Signed: Reinhold Thiel                
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The black mourning design is very rare on watch cases, it is more often found on brooches and medallions.