Large French Montre de Souscription cylinder watch Circa 1819

Gold ruby cylinder single handed watch by Breguet et Fils
–
A large French gold ruby cylinder single handed pocket watch, circa 1819. This watch features a gilded movement with a ruby cylinder escapement and a plain three arm brass balance equipped with a compensation curb and parachute suspension. It includes a large central barrel and is signed and numbered Breguet 3337. The white enamel dial displays black Arabic hour numerals and an outer track with 5 minute markers. It has a single blued steel moonhand and is signed Breguet et Fils at the base, with a secret signature beneath the 12 o’clock position, also numbered Breguet 3337. The case is crafted from 18 carat gold, showcasing an engine turned back and band, polished bezels, and a gold pendant and bow. The case back is also numbered 3337.
–
This watch called  Montre de Souscription was sold to Monsieur Caliste Casson on 2 July 1819 for 888 francs.
–
Diameter: 62.5 mm
–
Signed: Breguet et Fils
–
The movement shows a few light scuffs and spots, but overall, the surfaces appear clean. The dial is in good condition, with only a few minor scratches. The case’s engine turning remains crisp, retaining its well defined appearance.
–
After seeking refuge in Switzerland during the French Revolution, Breguet created the Souscription Watch series to rejuvenate his business. These watches, noted for their single hand, were described by Breguet as being of the highest quality and made to a single specification. Buyers were required to pay a third of the price upfront, which led to the series being named Souscription.
–
Breguet incorporated his innovative modification to the cylinder escapement in this series. Originally developed in the 1720s, the cylinder escapement was refined by Breguet to address its primary flaw: being a frictional rest escapement. By crafting the cylinder from ruby, he minimised friction and wear. While English watchmakers had used this device, it remained fragile as part of the arbor. Breguet enhanced its durability by isolating the cylinder’s half section from the balance axis, ensuring it bore no weight from the balance and was protected from shocks. The balance was mounted on the lower collet of a conventional staff, with the cylinder’s pivot supported by an arm attached to the movement plate.