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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Pocket watch · Pocket watch

Watch of gold with hatched silver dial

Partially verified

This pocket watch, held in the Rijksmuseum collection under accession number BK-NM-12881, is identified as a gold watch featuring a hatched silver dial. It is dated to the period circa 1840 to circa 1860. The object is constructed from gold and silver, exhibiting decorative work that includes an engraved case back further accented with enamel detailing. The dimensions are recorded as 4.4 cm in diameter, with a height of 6 cm including the pendant, a width of 4.4 cm, and a depth of 1.3 cm. While the museum classification notes it under wrist watch and jewellery, it physically presents as a standard pocket-style watch format. This record reflects the documented details provided by the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, serving as a primary reference for its identification and physical characteristics.

Front view of the gold pocket watch with a hatched silver dial and enamel-decorated bezel.
Front view of the gold pocket watch with a hatched silver dial and enamel-decorated bezel. — Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
orbiscollectibles.com
Category
Pocket watch · Pocket watch
Maker / attribution
Not established
Reference
Not recorded
Catalogue / lot identifier
BK-NM-12881
Source-reported date
c. 1840 - c. 1860
Source-reported place
Not established

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

Materials and Construction

The object is constructed using a combination of gold and silver. These materials form the structural body and the dial surface, respectively. The watch dimensions are provided as 4.4 cm in diameter by 1.3 cm in depth, with a total height of 6 cm measured to the top of the suspension ring.

The dial surface is distinguished by a hatched texture, creating a distinct visual pattern across the face.

Evidence for this section
  • “gold (metal), silver (metal)”
  • “diameter 4.4 cm x height 6 cm x width 4.4 cm x depth 1.3 cm”
  • “Watch of gold with hatched silver dial.”

Decoration and Aesthetic Details

The watch case incorporates both engraving and enamel work. The case back is specified as being decorated with engravings that are interspersed with enamel, suggesting a complex exterior treatment. The bezel and outer edges exhibit a floral-style pattern in enamel.

These decorative elements, combined with the hatched silver dial, provide a cohesive aesthetic.

Evidence for this section
  • “Case back decorated with engraving, interspersed with enamel.”

Collection and Institutional Status

The object is part of the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. It is registered under the identifier BK-NM-12881. The museum classifies the item under the categories of wrist watch and jewellery.

The documentation provided by the museum serves as the definitive source for these physical details. As a museum-held object, it is accessible for further study and verification within the Rijksmuseum's database records.

Evidence for this section
  • “The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, holds this object as BK-NM-12881”

Open research questions

  • Confirm if the museum classification 'wrist watch' refers to a specific early wristwatch conversion or a cataloguing nomenclature.
  • Identify the maker of the watch through future examination of the internal movement or case hallmarks.

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Watch of gold with hatched silver dial
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
Holding institutionRijksmuseum, Amsterdam“Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam”
Museum object numberBK-NM-12881“BK-NM-12881”
MaterialsGold and silver“gold (metal), silver (metal)”
Dimensions4.4 cm diameter, 6 cm height, 1.3 cm depth“diameter 4.4 cm x height 6 cm x width 4.4 cm x depth 1.3 cm”
Datingcirca 1840 - 1860“c. 1840 - c. 1860”
DecorationEngraved case back with enamel“Case back decorated with engraving, interspersed with enamel.”

Visible details

  • Case features decorative enamel inlay along the outer circumference.
  • Dial features a fine central guilloche-style hatching pattern.
  • Pendant bow displays matching decorative engraving and enamel work.
  • Hands are of a slender, ornate design centered on the dial.

Research qualifications

  • The museum classification as a 'wrist watch' may be a historical administrative term requiring further verification.
  • Maker attribution is currently unstated in the available records.

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

Consulted source

Watch of gold with hatched silver dial

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record 319e777b28

Terms in this record

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

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