German silver repoussé verge watch with chatelaine Circa 1690

Pocket watch with date and scene of the Holy Family
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A magnificent repoussé verge watch with date and crown chatelaine, made by Thomas Kirchheim in Mainz, Germany, circa 1690. The open faced paired case of this highly interesting early German watch was crafted from silver has an outer case with beautiful repoussé work representing a figural scene of the Holy Family fleeing to Egypt and a symmetrical representation of the four evangelists Matthew, Mark, Luke and John on the case’s sides. The plain inner case has the  master’s mark ‘MG’. The original champlevé dial has a date window at twelve o’clock, Arabic five minute numerals, Roman hour numerals and the, probably, original hands. The movement has an extremely unusual verge escapement, a glazed cock, a very early hairspring, magnificent decorations and Egyptian pillars.
Dial and movement are signed.
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Diameter: 56 mm
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Weight: 134 g
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Signed: Thomas Kirchheim, Mainz
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Thomas Kirchheim

Thomas Kirchheim (1657 – 1715) was a pocket watchmaker in Mainz around 1690. He is known for his craftsmanship and making high quality watches during that period. His  watches were known for several specific features and stylish features:

Skilled handicraft: Kirchheim was a master of his craft, which resulted in precise and reliable mechanisms.
Decorative Elements: His watches were often decorated with detailed engravings and ornaments, which gave a luxurious look.
Material use: He used high quality materials, such as gold and silver, which improved the durability and aesthetics of his watches.
Innovative Mechanisms: Kirchheim may have been involved in the development of new techniques and mechanisms, which distinguished his watches from those of other makers.
Aesthetic Design: The designs were often elegant and sophisticated, with attention to both functionality and beauty.

Thomas Kirchheim’s most important contribution to watchmaking in Mainz was his role in improving the quality and precision of watches in the region. He introduced cutting edge techniques and designs that improved the functionality and aesthetics of watches. In addition, he contributed to the development of new mechanisms, which strengthened Mainz’s reputation as a centre for watchmaking. His craftsmanship and innovative approach also helped to raise the standard for watches at the time.