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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Half hunter pocket watch

Benjamin Haas Jeune Quarter Repeating Pocket Watch

Partially verified

This Geneva-made half hunter pocket watch, produced circa 1900, features a quarter repeating complication. The case is constructed from 18K gold and measures 42 mm in diameter. It includes an enamel dial and is powered by a bridge movement equipped with two hammers striking on two gongs. The mechanical system incorporates a lever escapement and a screw compensation balance. The case design features engraved bezels and casebands, with the front lid showing black radial Roman numeral enamel inlays, while the reverse lid displays an engraved monogram. The watch is associated with the historical Geneva firm founded by Leopold and Benjamin Haas. The auction description notes that the movement is in very good condition and capable of running, though it recommends a cleaning for the mechanism.

View of the reverse side of the Benjamin Haas Jeune 18K gold half hunter quarter-repeater, showing the engraved monogram.
View of the reverse side of the Benjamin Haas Jeune 18K gold half hunter quarter-repeater, showing the engraved monogram. — Invaluable. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.invaluable.com
Category
Pocket watch · Half hunter pocket watch
Maker / attribution
Benjamin Haas Jeune
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
388
Source-reported date
circa 1900
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
18970

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

Case Construction and Exterior

The watch is presented in a half hunter configuration, featuring an 18K gold case that measures 42 mm. The exterior shows extensive engraving work on the bezels and the caseband. The front cover of the hunter case is inlaid with black radial Roman numerals, allowing the time to be read without opening the lid.

The reverse of the case features an engraved monogram set within a decorative cartouche. The crown and bow are also decorated with engravings matching the overall aesthetic of the case. The auction description reports the condition of the case as very good, noting some wear consistent with age.

Evidence for this section
  • “Case: 18 K gold, chased, engraved bezels and caseband, the front lid with inlaid, black, radial Roman enamel numerals, the back lid with engraved monogram.”
  • “Case: very good, worn.”

Movement and Complications

The watch contains a bridge-style movement that drives a quarter repeating complication. This mechanism uses two hammers acting upon two gongs to sound the time. The regulation of the movement is managed by a screw compensation balance, coupled with a standard lever escapement.

According to the documentation, the movement is in very good condition and is currently capable of running. The auction description explicitly advises that the movement requires a cleaning to ensure optimal future performance.

Evidence for this section
  • “Movm.: Bridge movement, 2 hammers / 2 gongs, lever escapement, screw compensation balance.”
  • “Movm.: very good, capable of running, cleaning recommended.”

Manufacturer Background

The piece is attributed to Benjamin Haas Jeune, a figure associated with the Geneva firm established by brothers Leopold and Benjamin Haas in 1848.

Historical records indicate that the firm changed its name to Haas Neveux & Cie in 1884 to reflect the entry of new family members into the business.

Evidence for this section
  • “In 1848 the brothers Leopold (1827-1915) and Benjamin (1828-1925) Haas, both knights of the Légion d'honneur, founded the ANCIENNE MANUFACTURE DES MONTRES HAAS & CIE in Geneva.”
  • “1884 Haas changed their name to Haas Neveux & Cie, to communicate that new family members had taken positions in the company.”

Open research questions

  • Does the movement bear the 'running hare' logo associated with the Haas Neveux & Cie period after 1884?
  • Is there a specific internal mark linking this case number to the Haas manufacturing records from Geneva?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Benjamin Haas Jeune Quarter Repeating Pocket Watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Case Material18 K gold“Case: 18 K gold”
Case Diameter42 mm“Dimensions 42 mm”
Weight62 g“Weight 62 g”
EscapementLever escapement“lever escapement”
Movement TypeBridge movement with 2 hammers and 2 gongs“Bridge movement, 2 hammers / 2 gongs”
Serial Number18970“Case No. 18970”
OriginSchweiz“Origin Schweiz”

Visible details

  • Case back features an elaborate engraved monogram
  • Front cover has radial Roman numeral indices
  • Small seconds dial positioned at six o'clock
  • Ornate engraved pattern on the bow and crown

Research qualifications

  • Condition report notes a hairline on the dial
  • Cleaning recommended for the movement

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

Consulted source

Benjamin Haas Jeune - Quarter Repeater

Reviewed 2026-10-26 · Record 88222f5afc

Terms in this record

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

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