Magnificent American full diamond ladies’ pin watch Circa 1870

Gold, silver and diamond set pin watch by Tiffany & Company
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A magnificent American keyless pin watch, circa 1870. This ladies’ watch and pin set was manufactured by Tiffany & Company and is crafted from gold, silver and brilliant-cut diamonds. The pin is designed as a slithering serpent, with the round timepiece hanging from its mouth. The design of this set showcases the greater availability of diamonds – the snake is completely covered with them, and a border of silver-set diamonds surrounds the white face of the watch, which features blue Arabic numerals, an outer minute track, and spade-style hands.
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Dimensions: 22 x 59 mm
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Signed: Tiffany & Co. New York
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The inscription on both the pin and the watch reads 61. The marking on the inside hinged dust cover at the back is 18k / 80749 / 69. The movement is marked with no. 80749. The safety catch of the pin is marked with PAT. JAN 10 [illegible]. The dial and movement are marked with TIFFANY & CO / NEW YORK.
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Tiffany & Company was first established in New York City in 1837 with a focus on producing stationary and fancy goods. By the 1870s, when this watch and pin set was made, Tiffany & Co. had become a favoured shopping destination for the elite of the Gilded Age, with branches in London and Paris. In 1869, diamond fields were discovered in South Africa, providing Americans with a new and abundant source of these sparkling gems, which were previously obtained from India or Brazil.