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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Pendant watch

A. Golay Leresche & Fils Diamond-Encrusted Pocket Watch

Partially verified

This pocket watch by A. Golay Leresche & Fils, Geneva, dates to the late 19th century, with source documentation providing a range of circa 1860-1880s. The piece features an 18k rose gold case, which is pavé-set with approximately 281 diamonds, including old European, old mine, and rose-cut stones. These diamonds have a total estimated weight of 5.85 to 6.00 carats, with color ranging from G to I and gray, and clarity grades between VS2 and I1. The watch has a diameter of 1 inch and weighs 50.50 grams in total. It is presented with a newly manufactured 30-inch 18k rose gold chain that includes a diamond-set connector. The watch is described as remaining in good condition.

A. Golay Leresche & Fils pocket watch with an associated 30-inch 18k rose gold chain.
A. Golay Leresche & Fils pocket watch with an associated 30-inch 18k rose gold chain. — Watch Museum. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
watchmuseum.org
Category
Pocket watch · Pendant watch
Maker / attribution
A. Golay Leresche & Fils
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
circa 1860-1880s
Source-reported place
Switzerland

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Watch Construction and Decoration

The pocket watch is crafted from 18k rose gold and features an exterior densely pavé-set with 281 diamonds. The stones represent a variety of cuts, specifically old European, old mine, and rose-cut. These diamonds have a collective weight estimated between 5.85 and 6.00 carats.

The color profile of the stones is reported as ranging from G, H, and I grades to gray, while the clarity is noted to vary between VS2 and I1. The case measures 1 inch in diameter and maintains a gross weight of 50.50 grams.

Evidence for this section
  • “The pocket watch itself is embellished with 281 carefully selected diamonds, including old European cut, old mine cut, and rose-cut diamonds.”
  • “The total carat weight of these dazzling stones ranges from approximately 5.85 to 6.00 carats.”
  • “Its wide 1-inch diameter and weight of 50.50 grams (gross) add to its substantial presence and luxurious feel.”

Maker and Origin

The timepiece is attributed to the firm A. Golay Leresche & Fils, based in Geneva. Although the source identifies the firm as Genevan in its primary specifications, it elsewhere refers to the item as a French pocket watch.

The watch dates to the late 19th century, with the source providing manufacturing windows of circa 1880s and 1860-1880s. The watch is reported to be in good condition.

Evidence for this section
  • “Creator: A. Golay Leresche & Fils Geneva”
  • “This exquisite French pocket watch is a true treasure”
  • “This extraordinary piece dates back to the 1860-1880s”

Associated Accessory

The watch is accompanied by a 30-inch chain manufactured in the United States. This chain is composed of solid 18k rose gold and includes a single diamond-set connector.

The chain is intended to provide versatile wearing options and is described as a bespoke addition to the historical timepiece.

Evidence for this section
  • “To enhance the allure of this timeless piece, we have created a bespoke 30-inch chain in solid 18k rose gold, complete with a diamond connector.”
  • “The chain, newly crafted in the United States, perfectly complements the elegance and sophistication of the pocket watch.”

Open research questions

  • What is the specific mechanical caliber or movement type housed within the diamond-encrusted case?
  • Can the provenance or original retail context of this specific piece be verified beyond the auction house description?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for A. Golay Leresche & Fils Diamond-Encrusted Pocket Watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerA. Golay Leresche & Fils Geneva“Creator: A. Golay Leresche & Fils Geneva”
Material18k rose gold and diamonds“Metal: 18k Gold,Rose Gold,Gold”
Diamond count281 stones“The pocket watch itself is embellished with 281 carefully selected diamonds”
Total carat weight5.85 to 6.00 carats“The total carat weight of these dazzling stones ranges from approximately 5.85 to 6.00 carats.”
Case dimensions1 inch diameter“Its wide 1-inch diameter”
Weight50.50 grams“weight of 50.50 grams (gross)”
Chain originUnited States“The chain, newly crafted in the United States”
ConditionGood“Condition: Good”

Visible details

  • The watch case is completely covered in diamond pavé set in rose gold
  • The watch is attached to a long link-style chain
  • The winding crown is positioned at the top of the watch, integrated with the pendant bow
  • The diamond settings appear to follow a dense, circular pattern on the watch exterior

Research qualifications

  • The source provides conflicting information, identifying the maker as both Genevan and French
  • The date of manufacture is inconsistently stated as circa 1880s and 1860-1880s

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

A. Golay Leresche Geneva Victorian Diamond Watch - Circa 1880’s

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 057e6ceae7

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.

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