Swiss gilt-metal and rock crystal crucifix-form watch Circa 1630

Gilt metal and rock crystal crucifix-shaped watch by Jean Rousseau
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A Swiss gilt metal and rock crystal crucifix-form watch, circa 1630. Partially foliate engraved gilt-brass cruciform plate, decorative hybrid pillars, chain fusée, verge escapement, three-armed steel balance, pierced and engraved cock secured by a screw, offset worm and wheel set-up with blued steel brackets. Silver dial, engraved Roman chapter, central engraved town scene, gilt cruciform dial plate engraved with masks and putti, the bottom part with a pious praying figure at the foot of the cross, blued steel hand. Gilt-brass-mounted rock crystal case hinged at the top, plain pendant and ring, small lower finial. Movement signed.
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Dimensions: 52 x 34 x 20.5 mm
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Diameter dial: 26 mm
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Signed: Jean Rousseau
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Jean Rousseau, 1606 – 1684, was an important and well-known watchmaker and Master of the Clockmakers’ Company of Geneva. He was particularly known for making form watches, such as this piece.