Museum-Grade Antique Imperial Presentation Paul Buhre Silver Pocket Watch c.1911

Welcome to a truly once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to acquire a museum-quality piece of Imperial history. Presented here is an extraordinary solid silver, full hunter case pocket watch crafted by the legendary maker Paul Buhre (Pavel Buhre), official supplier to the Imperial Court.

Circa 1911, this specific timepiece was awarded personally by Tsar Nicholas II to Captain Anatoly Vorontsov in recognition of outstanding marksmanship. Acquired directly from the family estate, this lot is a complete historical archive, accompanied by Captain Vorontsov’s original CDV photograph, his silver and enamel military badge, and a professional appraisal certificate valued at $6,000.

Significantly, this exact timepiece is a documented, published historical artifact, featured prominently on the cover of the definitive reference book on Imperial army award watches.

Historical Context & Provenance

Presentation watches of this caliber were strictly reserved for acts of exceptional merit. Bestowed personally by the Tsar, this watch was awarded to Captain Anatoly Vorontsov for sharp shooting—a highly esteemed military achievement. The solid silver hunter case features magnificent hand-engraved motifs indicative of this honor, depicting crossed rifles over a target.

Included in this extraordinary lot is the original carte de visite (CDV) photograph of Captain Vorontsov proudly wearing his uniform, alongside a beautifully preserved original silver and enamel badge dating to 1911 . The historical importance of this specific watch cannot be overstated, as it is the exact piece photographed and displayed on the cover of the leading reference book for military award watches 

Item Specifications

• Maker: Paul Buhre (Pavel Buhre) – Official Watchmaker to the Imperial Court.

• Era: Circa 1911.

• Case Material: Solid Silver.

• Case Type: Full Hunter. The front cover boasts a crisp, hand-engraved sharp shooter’s emblem featuring crossed rifles and a bullseye target . The back cover exhibits a stunning, pristine engine-turned guilloché pattern . The heavy, substantial case remains in excellent structural condition.

• Dial: A remarkably fine enamel dial featuring a highly detailed, hand-painted portrait of Tsar Nicholas II, complemented by classic Arabic numerals and elegant hands.

• Movement: High-grade mechanical manual wind movement, characteristic of Paul Buhre’s rigorous standards for Imperial military commissions.

What is Included in the Lot

This auction includes the complete, unbroken family estate collection:

1. The Original Paul Buhre Silver Presentation Watch

2. Original Silver & Enamel Military Badge: Featuring the Imperial double-headed eagle and the dates 1811–1911 

3. Original CDV Photograph: Depicting Captain Anatoly Vorontsov in his military uniform.

4. Reference Book: The published book featuring this exact watch on its cover.(the book didn’t comes with the lot)

5. Appraisal Certificate: A formal, documented appraisal valuing the set at $6,000.

Condition Report

This antique set is in outstanding, collector-grade condition. The silver case retains its crisp engravings with beautiful, authentic patina that has been carefully preserved. The enamel dial is vibrant and the portrait is immaculate. The accompanying badge shows minor, age-appropriate wear to the enamel but retains its structural integrity and historical hallmarks. Please review all provided photographs carefully, as they represent the most accurate visual description of the item’s condition.

An incredibly rare opportunity for serious collectors of military history, Imperial artifacts, and high-end horology. This is not just a watch; it is a documented piece of a bygone era.

Shipping & Handling: The item will be shipped fully insured with expedited international delivery and signature confirmation required. Professionally packed to ensure it arrives in the exact condition photographed.