C.1890s Patek, Philippe & Cie Genève 51mm Open Face pocket watch with white enamelled dial & blued steel hands in WG Filled case

Description

Antique. No box/papers & a Passions box will be given.

This Patek Philippe pocket watch was an export for the US market and only the movement was supplied which was a common practice in the past due to the US Tariff. This movement was sold to Merrick, Walsh & Phelps Jewelry Co and the retailer’s name was engraved onto the movement which legitimises the co-operation.

Founded in Missouri, USA by Harrison H. Merrick, William Walsh, and H.W. Phelps as the successors to Merrick & Walsh. Merrick, Walsh & Phelps Jewelry Co was incorporated in 1894 and the firm was eventually acquired by Mermod, Jaccard & Co in 1901.

The serial numbers on this movement is traced to circa 1894 which makes it one of the earliest orders placed from Patek Philippe during their first year of incorporation. This movement has just been overhauled by our master watch maker. It was stripped apart, cleaned, lubricated, assembled and timed so it keeps time very well now.

This watch has a hunter style layout (Small seconds at 6 and crown @ 3) and likely received a Railway style case later in its life which was a common practice for pocket watches just like the beginning of cars when manufacturers produce engines and chassis while the coach (body) was produced by another company. This case of antique production was made by Philadelphia Watch Case Co, signed and numbered. And unusually in white gold filled instead of the usual rose or yellow gold. It has heavy floral engravings on the edges of the case, bezel and back cover with decorative pattern on the back. The front bezel and back cover screw locks.

The white enamel dial is in perfect condition which is one of the most valuable component. The blued steel hands are similarly in flawless condition while the tail of the small seconds has an interesting decorative loop to it. The mineral crystal has a tiny chip on it’s edge at 2 and 11th minute with some scratches on the surface but negligible.

This watch has a stem set function which means you pull the crown out to adjust time which was a novelty at that time when others require a pin or lever. It takes about 15 winds to full. Archive certificate (CHF500) to apply at own expense and we cannot guarantee that the factory will issue one.

A very beautiful watch in great condition & lovingly hand crafted. Very sensibly priced for you.