Gold pocket watch by Christian Heinrich Hähnel and Michael Drexel

Case Construction and Decoration

The outer surface of the case demonstrates gold workmanship executed through a chasing technique, which provides depth and texture to the metal surfaces. The design includes an ornate suspension loop and a matching stem, which are integrated into the top of the case to facilitate carriage.

The bezel, which frames the glass and protects the dial, is also decorated to complement the overall aesthetic of the pair case. The construction serves as a housing for the internal movement and dial, providing a tactile finish consistent with the documented period of manufacture.

The case is associated with the chaser Michael Drexel, who applied his specific mark to the metalwork.

Dial and Timekeeping Display

The dial is circular and features a design based on concentric chapter rings. The hours are indicated by Roman numerals, which are positioned on the inner ring. To assist with precise time measurement, an outer track incorporates Arabic numerals marked at five-minute intervals.

The center of the dial is finished with decorative engraving, adding detail to the surface. The watch is equipped with elaborate openwork hands that allow the numerals to remain visible while indicating the time. The dial arrangement integrates functional timekeeping requirements with the decorative focus of the object.

Signatures and Attribution

The movement is signed "Chri. Heinrich Hähnel," identifying the maker responsible for the mechanical components of the watch. The record notes that this name is also recorded as C.H. Hannel in historical listings. The case itself bears the signature mark "MD," which identifies the work of the chaser Michael Drexel.

These attributions place the watch within a specific professional context in Germany during the early to mid-eighteenth century.