Rare Swiss pair cased repoussé keyless lady’s lever watch Circa 1897

Gold, enamel, and diamond set pocket watch by Patek Philippe & Co.
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A rare and small Swiss gold enamel and diamond set pair cased repoussé keyless lady’s lever watch, circa 1897. Designed in the style of the 18th century. This watch features a 10”’ damascened movement, signed and numbered Patek Philippe & Cie., Genève, No. 10796, with a lever escapement, a wolf’s tooth winding mechanism, and a bimetallic compensation balance. The dial is white enamel with blue Arabic numerals, a gold outer Arabic minute track, Louis XV style hands, and signed Patek Philippe & Cie., Genève.
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The cases are gold, with the back of the inner case featuring translucent blue enamel over engine turning and centred with polychrome enamel painted roses bordered by diamonds. The outer case is a gold repoussé design depicting Hercules and Omphale, numbered 223710. The watch comes with an Extract from the Archives, confirming its production in 1897 and sale on May 2, 1903. The Extract also verifies the repoussé style outer case representing Hercules and the blue enamel cover with painted roses.
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Diameter outer case: 32.5 mm
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Diameter inner case: 27 mm
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Signed: Patek Philippe & Cie Genève
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Movement is running. The dial has several hairline cracks at the bottom. The inner case has been restored to its enamel finish, but there are scratches on the central floral decoration. The outer case shows light scratches throughout.
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As punishment for the murder of Iphitus, Hercules served Omphale, the Queen of Lydia, for three years. Although he was well known for his incredible strength, Omphale initially treated him as enslaved. However, she eventually alleviated his suffering by taking him as her lover. The repoussé scene in the current piece depicts Hercules and Omphale, showcasing Hercules forced to spin Omphale’s loom—one of many tasks designed to demean him during his servitude. Interestingly, the artist has portrayed Hercules very masculinely, despite the myth stating that he was made to wear women’s clothing while performing these tasks.