An antique enamel, seed pearl and gilt open face watch made for the Chinese market by Bovet Fleurier, circa 1820, 63 mm. With signed polished steel movement, duplex escapement, glazed dust cover, white enamelled dial with Roman numerals, centre seconds within large circular gilt case with split pearl set bezels, pendant and bow, the back with painted polychrome bouquet of flowers on a royal blue enamel ground.
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- Circa - A Latin term meaning 'about', often used in the antique trade to give an approximate date for the piece, usually considered to be five years on either side of the circa year. Thus, circa 1900 means the piece was made about 1900, probably between 1895 and 1905. The expression is sometimes abbreviated to c.1900.
- Movement - The technical name for the workings of a clock or watch, and does not include the dial or case.
- Duplex Escapement - A duplex escapement is used in clocks and watches to control the release of energy from the mainspring to the timekeeping mechanism. The duplex escapement is a variation of the lever escapement and is characterized by the use of two pallets, or escape wheels, to control the release of energy.
In a duplex escapement, the balance wheel, which oscillates back and forth, alternately pushes against the two pallets. This allows the energy stored in the mainspring to be transferred to the balance wheel in a controlled manner, keeping the timekeeping mechanism accurate.
One of the advantages of the duplex escapement is its relatively low friction, which helps to maintain accurate timekeeping and prolong the life of the clock or watch. Additionally, the duplex escapement is relatively easy to maintain and repair, making it a popular choice for clockmakers.
- Polychrome - Made or finished in many colours. For furniture, it is used to indicated a painted finish.
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