Swiss quarter repeating automaton pocket watch Circa 1800

Repeating pocket watch with automaton scene
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An unsigned, key winding, multi coloured Swiss gold pocket watch (The Knife Grinder) with a quarter repeater, two striking jacks and an automaton scene, circa 1800. The watch movement is crafted from gilded brass and includes a fusee and chain, verge escapement, monometallic balance (also gilded brass), blued steel flat hairspring and a pierced and engraved gilded continental cock. The watch has an engine turned 18 Carat pink gold case and features a white enamel dial with an outer chapter ring and Bregue style hands.
This watch features a horological complication and an automaton scene. It includes a quarter repeater on two steel gongs, activated by depressing the pendant, which leads to the two striking Jacks and an animated scene with three functions. The chiselled, varicoloured gold scene showcases two Jacquemarts (Jacks) cherubs striking the elapsed time. Below is an automaton scene with two blacksmiths working at their forge, animated by the repeating mechanism.
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Diameter: 56 mm
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Signed: No name
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During the early 19th century, watches with automata became increasingly popular. This Swiss unsigned example includes a quarter repeating movement. When the bow is pressed, the knife grinder moves into action, sharpening his knife on the stone in front of him. His companion behind him operates the wheel, and the jacquetmarts on either side of the bell simulate the repeating.
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The movement is in working condition. The white enamel dial has repairs, particularly at 9 o’clock. The automata work itself has only very minor losses. The case shows surface wear consistent with its age and the engine turned is still crisp.