Swiss pearl set quarter repeating pair case watch Circa 1790

USD 10.000 – 15.000   HKD 77.000 – 115.000   CHF 9.500 – 14.000   Sold: USD 12.500
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Gold quarter repeating watch
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A fine 20 carat gold and enamel, pearl set, quarter repeating pair case watch. Made by Louis Duchêne et Compagnie in Genève, Circa 1790. Double body case with Louis XVI with split pearl set bezel, the enamel back panel painted with a courting couple beneath a canopy and the inscription: Gage d’Amitié, painted over a blue ground.
White enamel dial with Breguet numerals and gold pierced interlaced hands. Hinged gilt brass full plate movement with conical pillars, fusee with chain, verge escapement, plain brass three arm balance, flat balance spring, gilt brass continental cock pierced and engraved with the inscription: D. & Co., a polished steel end-piece and repeating on a bell by depressing the pendant.
Signed on the dial, and back plate.
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Diameter: 55 mm
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Signed: L^s. Duchêne et Compagnie
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The company Duchêne was founded by Louis Duchêne (1730-1804) in Geneva around 1750. From 1770 until 1790 they signed their products with Duchêne & Cie. In 1791 the company name changed to Louis Duchêne & Fils and traded under that name until 1820. The two sons of Louis Duchêne, Jacob Louis Duchêne (1751-1800) and Jacob Etienne Duchêne (1759-1840) were partners in the firm. Watches by Duchêne carry various signatures on the dials, cases and movements.