Pocket watch · Automaton repeating pocket watch
This open-face pocket watch, dated circa 1910 and attributed by the source to Barbezat, measures 58 mm in diameter. It is housed in a gold-filled case featuring a distinctive sculptural bow formed by two caryatid figures flanking the winding crown. The blue faux lapis lazuli dial displays an off-center white porcelain chapter ring with Arabic numerals and blued hands. Surrounding the dial are gilt relief automaton figures depicting two classical figures holding hammers poised to strike bells beside a central lyre, with a floral basket below. The seller reports a 15-jewel lever escapement movement with a bimetallic balance, offering an 8-day power reserve and quarter-hour repeating on two gongs.
Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.
The timepiece is housed in an open-face, gold-filled case with a diameter of 58 mm. A sculptural bow, depicting two caryatid figures supporting the winding crown, is integrated into the case design.
The case is described by the source as having undergone restoration.
The dial features a faux lapis lazuli surface described as having gold-colored flecks. It contains an off-center white porcelain chapter ring with Arabic numerals.
The dial includes an automaton assembly consisting of gilt figures holding hammers poised over bells, a central lyre, and a floral basket situated at the lower portion of the dial.
The watch is reported to contain a 15-jewel lever escapement movement with a bimetallic balance, adjusted to four positions. The movement is stated to provide an 8-day power reserve.
The watch features a quarter-hour repeating mechanism that activates two gongs during the automaton performance. Internal movement details are not visible in the source photography.
| Field | Source-reported value | Source quotation |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Barbezat | “Crafted by Barbezat” |
| Origin | Swiss | “Swiss By Barbezat” |
| Date | Circa 1910 | “Circa 1910” |
| Diameter | 58 mm | “Diameter: 58 mm” |
| Complications | Quarter-hour repeater on two gongs with striking automaton figures | “Quarter-Hour Repeater on Two Gongs Striking Automaton Figures” |
| Power Reserve | 8-day | “8-Day Power Reserve” |
| Movement | 15-jewel lever escapement movement with bimetallic balance, adjusted to four positions | “15-Jewel Lever Escapement Movement with Bimetallic Balance, Adjusted to Four Positions” |
| Case | Gold-filled open-face case with sculptural caryatid bow | “Gold-Filled Open-Face Case with Sculptural Caryatid Bow” |
| Maker | Barbezat | “Crafted by Barbezat” |
| Estimated Date | Circa 1910 | “Circa 1910” |
| Origin | Swiss | “Swiss By Barbezat” |
Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.
Reviewed 2026-10-25 · Record 2d9f06430b
Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.
