This is a superb Miniature Verge Fusee Movement, fitted in a GOLD & ENAMEL CASE made in the Form of a SHELLFISH.
It is signed Blanc Fils – PALAIS ROYAL (PARIS), has a French HALLMARK in the Centre of Case Back and dates to around 1810.
The Verge-Fusee Movement is complete, but not in running order. It was running up to 2 weeks before listing, but on giving it a final wind to check performance, the hook broke off the barrel. If you turn the winding arbour slightly anti-clockwise, the balance will run indicating that there should be little serious damage.
The 20mm Convex Porcelain Dial is in excellent condition and has the winding pinion at 2pm .
The Multicoloured GOLD & ENAMEL Case measures 28 x 35mm (incl ring), bears SN 1262 and is in superb condition, with just tiny areas of enamel missing – Ref : 287 D
This rare Form Watch is being sold in the condition as described and as illustrated in the pics
J.F Britten lists Blanc Fils at PALAIS ROYAL from 1807 to 1825c
http://forum.horlogerie-suisse.com – dates Blanc Fils from 1802 -1823c
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palais-Royal details the history of the Palais Royal ( the former personal residence of Cardinal Richelieu) and states that from 1784, there were 145 boutiques, cafes, salons etc located in arcades surrounding the gardens of the Palais. These were frequented by the French Aristocracy & Middle Classes.
One can only speculate as to whom might originally have purchased this Very Fine Timepiece.
The PICTURES and TEXT FORM THE COMPLETE OFFERING IN ALL MY LISTINGS and are subject to COPYRIGHT – ©