Swiss 18 carat gold observatory chronometer Circa 1880

Pocket watch with very rare and unusual caliber
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A very rare observatory chronometer tested in Genève, made by Paul Perret in le Locle, Switzerland, circa 1880.
The numbered case of this watch is crafted from 18 carat gold and the cuvette is marked “Bulletin Officiel de l’Observatoire de Genève”, Chronomètre, Ancre ligne Droite, 15 Rubies. The white enamel dial has Arabic five minute- and Roman hour numerals, a subsidiary seconds dial at 6 o’clock and the original gold minute- and a replaced hour hand. The extremely rare and unusual movement has a special regulation, screwed gold chatons and a lever escapement.
Case and movement have matching numbers and are signed.
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Diameter: 50 mm
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Weight: 89 g
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Signed: Paul Jeannot – Paul Perret
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Jeannot
Paul Jeannot was a prominent Swiss watchmaker known for his contributions to high end watchmaking during the 19th century. Based in Geneva, Jeannot earned a reputation for the precision and quality of his watches, which often featured advanced technical characteristics such as micrometric adjustment. During a period when Geneva was establishing itself as a center of horological excellence, Jeannot excelled in creating watches that combined functionality and aesthetics. His creations were highly valued in both Europe and America, becoming symbols of status and refinement.

Today, Paul Jeannot watches are sought after by collectors for their exceptional craftsmanship and historical significance. Each watch bears the mark of Swiss precision and a commitment to excellence, making Jeannot’s timepieces a lasting legacy in the world of horology.
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Perret
The story of Paul Perret (la Sagne 1854 – 1904 le Landeron) is quite unusual. He was famous not for one single accomplishment but for three different ones: He revolutionized watch adjustment, registered the very first Swiss patent and contributed to the only watchmaking related discovery to win a Nobel Prize!
Perret was incredibly controversial in his time, vilified and then embraced by his peers, yet there is little record of his life.