German verge watch with scalloped edged rock crystal Circa 1650

Gilt metal watch with rock crystal by Johann Koch
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A German gilt metal and rock crystal scallop-form verge watch, circa 1650. This watch has a gilded full plate movement with verge escapement, decoratively pierced and engraved screwed-on balance cock and foot, plain flat steel balance, wheel and click set-up, fusee and chain, turned baluster pillars, and is signed Johann Koch in Collen. The silver dial features elegant Roman numerals, intricate half-hour divisions, and turned-blued steel floriated hands. The centre is delicately engraved with a charming scene of a church and lake in the foreground, and a hilltop town in the background, all framed by a plain gilt metal border. The gilt metal case has engraved bezels and rock crystal covers in a scalloped form with radiant facets. The design is complemented by a simple pendant and a turned terminal, creating a stunning and elegant piece.
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Length including pendant and terminal: 43.5 mm
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Width: 33 mm
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Signed: Johann Koch, in Collen
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The dial engraving retains a clear definition, with only light scuffs and scratches on the surface. The rock crystal appears to be in good overall condition, with some wear to the gilding of the bezels. The cover closes securely, and the movement is running during cataloguing. There are small, minor scuffs and scratches on the backplate.
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Johann Koch began his recorded work in Cologne in 1654 before relocating to Stockholm, Sweden, around 1665, where he served as the Court Clockmaker. Regrettably, Koch passed away in 1679. This information can be found in Loomes’ Watchmakers and Clockmakers of the World (2006, p. 453).