Magnificent English diamond set duplex watch Circa 1797

Estimate  70,000 – 100,000 GBP Passed
Gold and enamel pocket watch by William Anthony
–
A stunning and exceptionally rare English 8-day gold, enamel, split-pearl, and diamond-set duplex watch crafted specifically for the Chinese market, circa 1797. The movement features an intricately engraved gilded oval design, a duplex escapement, a polished steel five-arm balance, a diamond end stone, a large decoratively engraved hanging barrel, and a five-wheel train that ensures extended functionality. The gilt metal cuvette bears the signature of William Anthony of London, along with the serial number 1898, and features two apertures with corresponding engraved depictions of a horse pulling a rope to indicate wind direction. It also includes a pair of watch hands beside the offset handset square.
–
The watch boasts an oval white enamel dial with three equal-sized subsidiary dials. The primary dial showcases Roman numerals for hours and minutes, while the subsidiary seconds dial features Arabic numerals. Moreover, the watch is adorned with gold arrow hands for hours and minutes, a counter-poised seconds hand, and is signed by Wm Anthony of St John’s Square, London.
–
The oval case is embellished with three diamonds at the centre, surrounded by a diamond-set frame. The inner row is adorned with pearls and scroll-form gold wire work set with pearls, while the two outer bands are decorated with gold triangular motifs highlighted with translucent red and opaque red enamel within a light blue border. Additionally, there is a further outer border of dark blue translucent enamel over the engine turning. The bezels are each set with two rows of split pearls, and the pendant is further adorned with split pearls. The case back is hallmarked 1797 and numbered 98, with the case maker’s mark IR. The item is accompanied by a custom-made green velvet presentation case with a gilt metal key signed J. Ullmann & Co., Shanghai.
–
Diameter including pendant: 95 mm
–
Width: 58 mm
–
Signed: William Anthony London
–
The dial shows signs of hairline cracks. The gilding on the cuvette is in good overall condition, although the catch is slightly loose. Despite this, the back cover remains secure when closed. The movement of the watch is operational, and the surfaces maintain good condition with clear, sharp decorative elements.
–
William Anthony
Specialising in watches for the Chinese market, William Anthony is renowned for his exquisite oval timepieces. The intricate decoration on the case of the present watch is complemented by the clear white enamel dial, divided into two equal sections displaying hours and minutes above subsidiary seconds. The 8-day duration movement is meticulously engraved on almost every surface, as was customary for many watches intended for the Chinese market. The movement also features a prominent hanging barrel and a duplex escapement. William Anthony (1765–1844) worked at Red Lion Street and St. John’s Square in London and was actively involved in the founding of the Watch and Clockmakers’ Benevolent Association in 1815. Unfortunately, his business declined after he acquired costly wardrobes from the time of King Charles I, which were poorly attended when exhibited at Somerset Gallery, and due to unsuccessful litigation with Grimaldi & Johnson. At the time of his death, he was found to have a substantial lease on the Doughty Estate, which he failed to collect rent from for the 20 preceding years. The leases were almost expired at the time of his death.