Description

An unusual early 19th century Swiss quarter repeating verge automaton in a gold open face case.  Unusual full plate gilt fusee movement cut away to reveal the escapement.  Gilt cock with polished steel endstone in a blue steel setting, steel regulator, plain three arm gilt balance with blue steel spiral hairspring.  Steel quarter repeating work above the plate striking on two steel gongs. White enamel ring dial with Arabic numerals, gilt Breguet hands.  Within the dial are chased and engraved parcel gilt classical figures fixed above a dark blue enamel ground.  Visible below the figures the pierced and engraved pillar plate and train  As the watch strikes the hours and quarters the arms of the figures move as though striking the bells between them.  Plain 18 carat open face case with ribbed middle, wound and set through the gilt metal cuvette.