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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Pocket watch

Pocket watch by Firm of Lépine

Partially verified

This pocket watch is attributed to the Firm of Lépine, a Parisian watchmaking establishment active between 1762 and 1914. Now held in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (accession number 17.101.6), the watch dates to the 19th century. Its construction features a combination of gold, engine-turned silver, niello, and champlevé enamel. The object measures 1 5/8 inches (4.1 cm) in diameter. The firm was founded by Jean-Antoine Lépine, a figure known for contributions to horological technology. Documentation is provided by the museum, which classifies the object within its European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department. Research is currently required to further substantiate the specific horological specifications and the precise attribution of this individual timepiece against broader surviving examples of the firm's nineteenth-century production.

A detailed view of the watch showing the decorative enamel and metal work on the case back and the suspension ring.
A detailed view of the watch showing the decorative enamel and metal work on the case back and the suspension ring. — The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Pocket watch · Pocket watch
Maker / attribution
Firm of Lépine
Reference
17.101.6
Catalogue / lot identifier
17.101.6
Source-reported date
19th century
Source-reported place
French, Paris

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

Physical Composition and Decoration

The pocket watch is described as having a body constructed from a mix of materials, including gold and engine-turned silver. The exterior surfaces are further embellished with niello and champlevé enamel, which provide textural and chromatic contrast against the metallic base.

Visually, the rear of the case shows a high level of decorative detail, utilizing repetitive floral motifs spread across the surface in a symmetrical pattern. The circumference of the case is bordered by a distinct reeded pattern, which provides a rigid frame for the central ornamental work.

Evidence for this section
  • “Gold, engine-turned silver, niello, champlevé enamel”

Maker and Historical Context

The object is associated with the Firm of Lépine, which maintained an active presence in Paris between 1762 and 1914. The firm was initially established by Jean-Antoine Lépine, who is identified in historical records as a significant contributor to the craft of watchmaking in France.

This specific watch is assigned to the 19th century, falling within the later years of the firm's existence in Paris. It is catalogued as item 17.101.6 within the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Evidence for this section
  • “Watchmaker: Firm of Lépine (French, active Paris, 1762–1914)”
  • “The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this object as 17.101.6”

Documentation and Research

The identification of this watch as a product of the Lépine firm is provided by museum records. Given the long lifespan of the workshop, individual attribution for pieces produced late in its history, such as those from the 19th century, continues to be a subject for independent horological verification.

While the object is clearly documented in the museum's collection database, the summary notes that the details provided are those of the specific museum object and that its wider classification remains to be confirmed by comparing its specifications against other horological sources.

Evidence for this section
  • “The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this object as 17.101.6; details are those of this museum object, and how far it represents a wider type has not been independently verified.”

Open research questions

  • What specific movement type is contained within the case?
  • Are there any identifiable hallmarks or inscriptions on the interior of the case?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Pocket watch by Firm of Lépine
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerFirm of Lépine“Watchmaker: Firm of Lépine (French, active Paris, 1762–1914)”
MaterialsGold, engine-turned silver, niello, champlevé enamel“Gold, engine-turned silver, niello, champlevé enamel”
Dimensions1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm)“Diameter: 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm).”
Date19th century“19th century”
Holding InstitutionThe Metropolitan Museum of Art“The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this object as 17.101.6”
Place of ManufactureParis, France“French, Paris”

Visible details

  • The watch case features a prominent suspension ring
  • The reverse of the case is decorated with intricate floral or foliate motifs
  • The outer edge of the case appears to have a reeded or fluted texture

Research qualifications

  • The specific production date within the 19th century remains broad
  • The attribution to the Firm of Lépine requires verification against further horological references

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

Consulted source

Watch by Firm of Lépine, French, Paris, 19th century

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 59fc08d582

Terms in this record

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

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