Pocket watch · Pocket watch
This pocket watch, held in the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art (accession 17.101.39), is attributed to the watchmaker Pierre Gregson. The watch originates from Geneva, Switzerland, and is dated to the late 18th century. Construction incorporates gold, enamel, and diamonds. The object measures 1 7/8 inches (4.8 cm) in diameter. The dial features the signature 'Gregson Genève'. Photographic evidence reveals a dial with Arabic numerals and decorative hands, while the reverse of the case is decorated with an enamel scene depicting two figures, bordered by a row of set stones. Pierre Gregson was a British watchmaker active in Paris from approximately 1778 to 1790, and later in Geneva from approximately 1795. This specific timepiece represents a preserved example of his work, reflecting the materials and decorative techniques employed during the period of his Geneva activity.
Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.
The pocket watch features a circular dial with printed Arabic numerals denoting the hours. The signature 'Gregson Genève' is written on the lower section of the dial. The hands are intricately worked, exhibiting openwork designs.
The exterior case back is decorated with a polychrome enamel scene featuring two figures.
The watch is attributed to the watchmaker Pierre Gregson. Historical data indicates that Gregson was a British maker who maintained activity in different European centers. He was documented as working in Paris between approximately 1778 and 1790.
Following his tenure in France, Gregson shifted his activity to Geneva, Switzerland, by approximately 1795. This specific object is associated with his period of production in the Geneva region during the late 18th century.
The object is part of the collection of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, identified by accession number 17.101.39. It entered the collection as part of the bequest of Laura Frances Hearn in 1917.
The museum categorizes the object within its European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department. Documentation provided by the museum confirms the materials and dimensions, though technical internal specifications remain to be verified by further horological research.
| Field | Source-reported value | Source quotation |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | Pierre Gregson | “Watchmaker: Pierre Gregson (British, active Paris ca. 1778–90, active Geneva ca. 1795)” |
| Date | late 18th century | “late 18th century” |
| Materials | Gold, enamel, diamonds | “Gold, enamel, diamonds” |
| Diameter | 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm) | “Diameter: 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm).” |
| Accession Number | 17.101.39 | “The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this object as 17.101.39” |
| Origin | Geneva, Switzerland | “Swiss, Geneva” |
Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.
Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record d2a77413e7
Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.
