Swiss gold open faced watch with Empire motif Circa 1913

Gold and enamel lever pocket watch by Patek Philippe
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A yellow gold open faced watch with Empire motif, made in 1913, retailed by Julius C. Walk & Son, Indianapolis. Lever movement, bi metallic compensation balance, 18 jewels. White enamel dial with Empire motif center field, white enamel chapter ring with black painted Breguet numerals, Breguet hands, engine turned subsidiary dial for constant seconds, outer minute track, 18 carat yellow gold open faced case, hinged case back with engraved monogram, case and dial signed by maker, movement signed by maker and retailer.
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Diameter: 44 mm
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Signed: Patek Philippe & Co. Geneva Switzerland
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Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming production with ‘Empire’ style chased dial and Breguet numerals in 1913 and sale in 1914.

Prior to their acquisition, Patek Philippe ordered many of their dials from Stern Frères SA, arguably the finest dial makers in the world. 

This example is with an extremely well preserved dial, probably by Stern Frères. The dial is particularly interesting for its unusual enamel dial with a highly engraved gold center field in the Empire style and hand painted Breguet numerals. 

The Empire style of design came about in the early 19th century and takes its name from the period of the First French Empire and the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte. The neo classical aspects of the style were very popular throughout Europe and its themes were revived again and again in the decades that followed.

Julius C. Walk began his career as a watchmaker and jeweller at age 14 in Indianapolis.  In 1867, he began working for a high end jewelry store, and eventually became partner of Bingham and Walk in 1877.  Once his business partner died, he re-named the firm Julius C. Walk & Sons.  The firm was an agent for high end watch makers, such as Patek Philippe.