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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Octagonal pendant watch

Watch by Johann Possdorfer

Partially verified

This octagonal pendant watch was produced by the German watchmaker Johann Possdorfer, who was active in Prague and Dresden between 1620 and 1624. The watch dates to approximately 1630–1640. Its construction features a transparent rock crystal case framed in gold, which allows for the internal movement to be partially viewed. The movement is fabricated from gilded brass and steel, with specific components showing a blued finish. The watch is currently held by The Metropolitan Museum of Art as part of their European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection, having been gifted to the institution by J. Pierpont Morgan in 1917. Measuring 1 1/4 by 7/8 inches (3.2 by 2.2 cm), the object exhibits a distinct octagonal geometric form, with metalwork detailing on the dial plate and movement backplate. The dial displays an ornate surface with floral enamel work surrounding the numerals.

The octagonal rock-crystal pendant watch by Johann Possdorfer, showing the dial through the crystal case
The octagonal rock-crystal pendant watch by Johann Possdorfer, showing the dial through the crystal case — The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Pocket watch · Octagonal pendant watch
Maker / attribution
Johann Possdorfer
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
17.190.1525
Source-reported date
ca. 1630–40
Source-reported place
Germany

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 and Dial

The watch is enclosed in an octagonal case constructed from rock crystal and gold, providing a clear view of the mechanical components within. The frame of the crystal is adorned with metal decorative elements that match the thematic style of the dial.

The dial is positioned beneath the crystal and is encircled by a floral enamel design featuring small blue and yellow flowers against the gold frame. It displays a chapter ring with Roman numerals and a central decorative pattern, with a single hand used to indicate the time.

Evidence for this section
  • “Case: rock crystal and gold”
  • “Overall: 1 1/4 × 7/8 in. (3.2 × 2.2 cm)”

Movement and Inscriptions

The internal movement is constructed primarily of gilded brass, with steel components utilized for the balance and other moving parts. Certain steel components are blued, providing a visual contrast against the gilt surfaces.

The backplate of the movement is inscribed with the maker's name and location, identifying the watch as the work of Johann Possdorfer of Dresden.

Evidence for this section
  • “Movement: gilded brass and steel, partly blued”
  • “Watchmaker: Johann Possdorfer (German, active Prague and Dresden, recorded 1620–24)”

Provenance and Documentation

The object is part of the permanent collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, having entered the institution in 1917. It was acquired as a gift from J. Pierpont Morgan.

The museum identifies the object within its European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department. The record is based on official museum accession data, which categorizes it as a watch by the identified maker.

Evidence for this section
  • “The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this object as 17.190.1525”
  • “Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917”

Open research questions

  • What specific type of escapement is utilized within the Possdorfer movement?
  • Are there extant examples of Possdorfer's work from his documented Prague period to compare with this Dresden-marked piece?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Watch by Johann Possdorfer
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerJohann Possdorfer“Watchmaker: Johann Possdorfer (German, active Prague and Dresden, recorded 1620–24)”
Dateca. 1630–40“ca. 1630–40”
Case MaterialsRock crystal and gold“Case: rock crystal and gold”
Movement MaterialsGilded brass and steel“Movement: gilded brass and steel, partly blued”
Dimensions1 1/4 × 7/8 in. (3.2 × 2.2 cm)“Overall: 1 1/4 × 7/8 in. (3.2 × 2.2 cm)”
ProvenanceGift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917“Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917”
Museum Number17.190.1525“17.190.1525”

Visible details

  • The watch features an octagonal rock crystal case.
  • The dial is decorated with polychrome floral enamel borders.
  • The movement backplate is signed 'J. Possdorfer Dresden'.
  • A single hand indicates the time on a Roman numeral track.

Research qualifications

  • The precise date is estimated to 1630–40 rather than being definitively dated.
  • The maker attribution is based on records of Johann Possdorfer's active years.
  • The extent to which this specific specimen represents a wider workshop type remains unverified.

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

Consulted source

Watch by Johann Possdorfer, German, Dresden, ca. 1630–40

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 8c1b74ce61

Terms in this record

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