Antique Pope Pius IX Holy See Papal Silver Pocket Watch 46mm Key Wind Perfect

Offered for your consideration is a deeply historical and exceptionally rare antique silver pocket watch, specially commissioned to commemorate the Holy See during the pontificate of Pope Pius IX. Reigning from 1846 to 1878, Pope Pius IX holds the distinction of being the longest-reigning elected pope in the history of the Catholic Church.

Timepieces of this highly specific religious and political nature were typically produced as exclusive presentation items, bespoke commissions for high-ranking Vatican officials, or prestigious gifts for noble supporters of the Papal States during a highly tumultuous era of Italian unification. The presence of a detailed polychrome portrait dial coupled with an applied gold-tone Papal crest elevates this from a mere timekeeper to an important ecclesiastical artifact from the mid-19th century.

Detailed Specifications & Condition Report

The Commemorative Portrait Dial & Hands

• Artistic Motif: The centerpiece of the watch is a beautifully preserved white enamel dial featuring a highly detailed,  polychrome portrait of Pope Pius IX. He is depicted in traditional papal choir dress, raising his right hand in a gesture of benediction, with a golden crucifix positioned in the background.

• Timekeeping: The hours are clearly designated by crisp, elongated black Roman numerals radiating around the outer edge of the portrait.

• Hands: The time is indicated by a delicate set of antique gold-tone filigree hands that elegantly complement the religious iconography.

The Silver Papal Case

• Dimensions & Materials: The well-proportioned case measures 46mm in diameter and is crafted from solid silver, possessing a beautiful, unpolished antique patina.

• Case Back Masterpiece: The rear of the case is adorned with a stunning, high-relief applied gold-tone emblem of the Papal Coat of Arms. This masterfully cast crest features the iconic crossed Keys of Heaven (representing spiritual and worldly power) bound by a cord, surmounted by the Papal Tiara (the triregnum).

• The Cuvette (Dust Cover): The inner silver dust cover is decorated with a sophisticated engine-turned (guilloché) wave pattern. The center bears an engraved cartouche and the mechanical specification “CYLINDRE HUIT RUBIS” (Cylinder 8 Jewels). Two keyholes are present for winding and setting the time.

The Precision Movement

• Mechanics: Powering this historical artifact is a mid-19th-century antique mechanical movement utilizing a cylinder escapement.

• Finishing: The movement exhibits classic European bridge architecture, featuring frosted gilt brass plates that contrast beautifully with the blued steel screws and polished steel components.

• Operating Condition: This exceptional religious presentation timepiece remains in perfect working order. A properly fitted antique winding key is included with the purchase to operate the dual rear keyholes.

Terms of Sale This antique ecclesiastical presentation timepiece is a functioning piece of Vatican history and is sold exactly as photographed. Please review all high-resolution images carefully, as they form a definitive part of the description.

The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $2700

Free shipping to worldwide.

NOTE:PLEASE OBSERVE CAREFULLY THE PHOTOS! IT IS A SIGNIFICANT PART OF THE DESCRIPTION. Every possible defect which is shown in the photos,but not mention in the description,will be considered for described.All the photos shoot by professional Nikon 105 Macro lens under 40x diopter magnification,so you can explore even the smallest detail like under microscope!