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Measuring approximately 25 mm in diameter and weighing 12.0 grams total, this diminutive watch is a lovely example of the period when fine ladies\' timepieces were as much pieces of jewelry as they were functional watches.
The solid gold case is extensively decorated across the front with hand-chased and engraved flowers, leaves and scrolling botanical forms, characteristic of the flowing naturalistic aesthetic of the Art Nouveau period. A delicate beaded border surrounds the dial, while the reverse of the case is smoothly polished.
A particularly charming feature is the high-domed “bubble” crystal, which rises prominently above the floral 14K gold bezel and gives the watch its distinctive early-20th-century profile.
The gilt dial is beautifully detailed, with a finely engine-turned / guilloché central rosette, black Arabic numerals, outer minute track and elegant blued steel hands. The combination of the gilt dial, blue hands and richly engraved gold case creates a particularly attractive period appearance.
The case is clearly stamped:
A & J.P.
14K
654673
Inside is a quality Swiss mechanical movement with 15 jewels, adjusted to 2 positions. The movement is marked SWISS and 15 JEWELS / 2 ADJTS.
The architecture of the movement closely resembles early Swiss movements associated with the Wyss/Welta family, but because a definitive caliber identification has not been established, it is conservatively offered and described simply as a Swiss 15-jewel movement.
DETAILS
Date: Circa 1915
Period/Style: Art Nouveau
Origin: Swiss movement
Case: Solid 14K Gold
Case Mark: A & J.P.
Case No.: 654673
Diameter: Approx. 25 mm
Total Weight: Approx. 12.0 grams
Crystal: High-domed / “bubble” crystal
Movement: Mechanical, manual wind
Jewels: 15
Adjustments: 2 positions
Condition: Running
CONDITION
The watch winds, sets and runs.
Service history is unknown. Accuracy has not been professionally tested and are not guaranteed. As with any antique mechanical watch of this age, professional cleaning and servicing are recommended before regular use.
The solid 14K gold case shows normal fine scratches and surface wear consistent with age and use. The elaborate floral decoration remains well defined and presents beautifully.
The gilt dial shows visible age-related patina, oxidation and surface wear, all consistent with its age. The high-domed crystal shows no visible scratches.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the condition description and show the case, dial, movement, hallmarks and high-domed crystal in detail.
An exceptionally charming circa 1915 Art Nouveau ladies\' watch, combining a richly decorated solid 14K gold floral case, distinctive high-domed crystal, gilt dial and quality 15-jewel Swiss movement adjusted to two positions.
A wonderful survivor from the early 20th century, with tremendous period character and jewelry appeal.
