circa 1726, outer case apparently unmarked, tests as gold, verso with a repoussé classical scene, possibly that of Diana and Endymion, open faced pocket watch, white dial, black Roman numerals, Arabic minute track and gold coloured hands under a convex crystal, front loading gilt full plate key wind movement, signed R THRELKELD LONDON 431, pierced and engraved balance cock with mascaron at the neck, verge escapement with chain fusée, silvered regulation and 4 pinned square baluster pillars, inner case, 42mm diameter, verso with offset winding aperture, interior with untraced casemaker's mark (WN skeleton punch) and London hallmarks for gold, 113.2g gross, presented with a decorative winding key

Ralph Threlkeld (1722-1740) appears to be part of a watchmaking family originally from Brancepeth, County Durham. He is listed in 'Britten's' as located in London, with alternative research giving an address of 'The sign of the Oyll Jarr in the Strand, London'. This appears to be an early example of his work.

Condition Report

Outer case - Opens and closes satisfactorily, though the thumbpiece is a little crushed. Verso with one or two pinholes to the raised parts of the decoration, visible when held up to the light.

Crystal: Complete. Some surface scratches, visible under reflected light, and minor grizzling around the edges.

Dial: In good condition. A minor chip to the central area around 1H

Movement: In working order, though not tested for timekeeping or endurance

Case: Fair to good condition. Some surface scratches and minor bruising around the circumference due to friction against the outer case. Some further bruising to the case side, together with a more obvious dent at 3H