Glossary · Collecting
Provenance
The documented history of ownership and origin of an object.
Explanation
Provenance is the documented history of an object: who owned it, where it was sold, how it passed between owners. Invoices, auction catalogues, inscriptions, service records and photographs all contribute. Strong provenance can transform the historical interest and value of a watch; vague stories without documents should be treated as unverified.
In the object catalogue
Catalogued objects whose own source record mentions “Provenance”. The quoted line shows where; it is the seller’s or museum’s wording, not independent verification.
Clock
Justin Vulliamy George III Table Clock
“Provenance: David G. Vulliamy collection”
Clock
Japy Frères & Cie 19th-century French repeating carriage clock
“Provenance: David Read Collection”
Pocket watch
Lepaute 18K Gold and Enamel Openface Quarter Repeating Verge Pocket Watch
“Provenance: The Sandberg Collection, Antiquorum, Geneva, 31 March 2001, lot 222”
Wristwatch
Jaeger-LeCoultre Calibre 101 Collection Ref. 282.3.70 Diamond-Set Bracelet Watch
“Provenance Header: Property Of An Asian Collector”
Pocket watch
E. Howard Watch Co., Boston. 14K gold open face pocket watch, Edward Howard, No. 124
“Provenance: Property of a Portland Oregon Collection”
Clock
Chelsea Clock Company No. 1 Pendulum Clock
“Provenance: Princeton, New Jersey collection”