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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Verge fusee pocket watch

John Ward Verge Fusee Sterling Silver Pocket Watch

Partially verified

This antique pocket watch is documented by the auction source as a sterling silver key-wind timepiece attributed to John Ward of Fore Street, London. Dated to the 19th century, the watch is catalogued with a verge fusee movement numbered 4567, measuring 73 mm in diameter with a gross weight of 139.5 grams. The white dial displays black Arabic numerals, outer minute markings, pierced gilt hands, and an exposed winding aperture between the 3 and 4 o'clock markers. The silver-toned case features decorative scalloped and coin-edge textured rims along with a suspension pendant and bow.

Dial view of the John Ward pocket watch showing Arabic numerals and winding aperture
Dial view of the John Ward pocket watch showing Arabic numerals and winding aperture — Stadsauktion Sundsvall / Auctionet. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
auctionet.com
Category
Pocket watch · Verge fusee pocket watch
Maker / attribution
John Ward
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
5214159
Source-reported date
19th century
Country
United Kingdom
Source-reported serial
4567

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

Object Identity and Attribution

This pocket watch is catalogued as a 19th-century sterling silver, key-wind timepiece. The maker is identified by the source as John Ward of Fore Street, London.

The object is recorded with the movement number 4567. Attribution to the specific maker is source-reported.

Evidence for this section
  • “Key-wind pocket watch in sterling silver made by John Ward, Fore Street, London.”
  • “Movement number 4567.”
  • “19th century.”

Dial and Configuration

The dial features Arabic numerals. Condition reports identify damage including scratches, marks, and a hairline crack on the dial.

The watch utilizes a verge fusee movement.

Evidence for this section
  • “Verge fusee movement with Arabic numerals on the dial.”
  • “Damage to dial. Scratches, marks, hairline crack on dial.”

Dimensions and Operational Status

The watch has a diameter of 73 mm and a gross weight of 139.5 grams.

The documentation states the watch has not been function tested.

Evidence for this section
  • “Diameter 73 mm, gross weight 139.5 grams.”
  • “Not function tested.”

Open research questions

  • What specific hallmarks are present on the silver case to verify the 19th-century date and London origin?
  • Does the internal movement contain a signature plate matching the documented maker?
  • What is the extent of the internal mechanical condition?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for John Ward Verge Fusee Sterling Silver Pocket Watch
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerJohn Ward, Fore Street, London“Key-wind pocket watch in sterling silver made by John Ward, Fore Street, London.”
Movement TypeVerge fusee“Verge fusee movement with Arabic numerals on the dial.”
Movement Number4567“Movement number 4567.”
Date19th century“19th century.”
DimensionsDiameter 73 mm“Diameter 73 mm”
WeightGross weight 139.5 grams“gross weight 139.5 grams.”
Maker AddressFore Street, London“Key-wind pocket watch in sterling silver made by John Ward, Fore Street, London.”

Visible details

  • White dial with black Arabic numerals and five-minute calibration markers.
  • Prominent circular winding aperture positioned between 3 and 4 o'clock with visible perimeter chipping.
  • Pierced ornate gilt hands centrally mounted on the dial.
  • Hairline cracks visible running across the center and upper portion of the dial surface.
  • Silver-toned case rim decorated with concentric beaded and fluted borders.
  • Flat-topped pendant fitted with a rectangular-style stirrup bow.

Research qualifications

  • Source reports dial damage, scratches, marks, hairline cracks, and notes the movement was not function tested.
  • Internal movement and maker signatures are not visible in the supplied photograph; maker attribution is source-reported.

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

Terms in this record

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