Gold-Tone Open-Face and Hunter Case Pocket Watch with Triple Date Indicator and Visible Movement

Name: Gold-Tone Open-Face and Hunter Case Pocket Watch with Triple Date Indicator and Visible Movement
Brand: Dirk-Jan
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Gold-toned pocket watch held in a hand, showing both a classic white dial and a skeletonized movement with triple date indicators. - view 1

1/3

Uncommon (6/10)

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

This appears to be a dual-purpose pocket watch, showcasing intricate watchmaking. One side presents as a classic open-face pocket watch with a white enamel dial featuring Roman numerals for the hours (IIII for 4 o'clock, commonly used in horology) and a sub-dial for seconds at the 6 o'clock position. The other side reveals a more complicated and decorative 'hunter' case configuration with a triple date indicator and a visible skeletonized movement. This side features a ring with the days of the week (LUN, MAR, MER, JEU, VEN, SAM, DIM - Monday to Sunday in French) and numbers from 1 to 31 for the date. The center of this dial is open, displaying the intricate brass gears and balance wheel of the mechanical movement beneath, often referred to as a 'skeleton' or 'open-heart' movement. The case appears to be gold-toned, meticulously crafted, and in near mint condition as per the user's context. The watch is equipped with a classic oignon/onion-shaped crown and a bow for attachment to a chain.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

European HorologyBelle Époque to Art Deco

Many Swiss and French watchmakers produced complicated pocket watches during this period, often featuring multiple dials or double-sided cases to display various functions.

Meaning Through Time

Late 19th - Early 20th Century

A symbol of status, precision, and technological sophistication, worn by gentlemen in professional and social settings.

HISTORICAL STORY

Pocket watches with multiple complications and visible movements became popular during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as manufacturing capabilities improved and there was a growing appreciation for the mechanical artistry of watchmaking. The use of French days of the week suggests European ...

DID YOU KNOW?

The use of 'IIII' instead of 'IV' for the 4 o'clock hour on clock and watch dials is a common practice in horology, believed to be for aesthetic balance with the VIII on the opposite side.

Pocket watches with complications like the triple date were considered luxury items, showcasing the owner's status and appreciation for mechanical engineering.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

Smooth, polished gold-toned metal case, likely gilded or gold-filled, with a reflective surface. The white enamel dial is smooth and glossy. The visible movement features finely finished brass gears and steel components, offering a complex, textured metallic appearance.

Weight & Feel

Given its size and materials, it would likely feel substantial and well-crafted in the hand, weighing approximately 100-150 grams (3.5 to 5 ounces).

Condition

User states 'Near mint condition.' Visually, the case shows no apparent scratches, dents, or significant wear. The dials are clean, and the movement appears free of dust and corrosion. The hinges and crown also seem to be in excellent condition, indicative of exceptional preservation. The crispness of the Roman numerals and calendar engravings further supports this assessment.