Unusual Swiss blackened silver keyless pocket watch Circa 1887

Silver open faced lever pocket watch by Patek Philippe
–
A Swiss silver and enamel open faced watch with engraved scene of St. George and the Dragon, circa 1887. The watch features a frosted gilt movement with bar calibre, 17 jewels, wolf’s tooth winding, a straight line lever escapement, a cut bimetallic compensation balance, a blued steel Breguet balance spring, and an index regulator. It boasts a cast and chased silver dial adorned with foliate decoration, white enamel oval cartouches exhibiting radial Roman numerals, an outer white enamel minute track, and gold Louis XV hands. The silver case includes an inscribed cuvette and a hinged case back engraved with a scene of St. George and the Dragon, while the inside of the case back is etched with Christ and St. Peter the fisherman. This timepiece is accompanied by the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives, which confirms the date of sale as September 8, 1890. The case, dial, and movement are all signed.
–
Diameter: 33 mm
–
Signed: Patek Philippe & Co. Genève
–
During the late 19th century, this was the luxury bon voyage gift of choice for a loved one about to embark on a journey across the seas. This pendant watch from 1890 is an exceptional example of one of Patek Philippe’s St. George engraved timepieces. The bezel bears the Latin inscription SECVRIT IN TEMPESTATE (safety in the storm), while the outer engraving depicts St. George slaying the dragon, accompanied by the motto GEORGIVS EQVITVM PATRONVS (St. George, Patron of the Knights). The fortunate original recipient was assured safe passage with this token of good luck.
–
The case is in excellent condition. The engraving is sharp. The cuvette is a bit loose – the hinge is insecure. The dial is generally in very good condition. The crown requires repair. The movement is functioning.