Antique 18K Gilt Vermeil Jaquemart Automaton Quarter Repeater Pocket Watch RARE

A Masterpiece of Early 19th-Century Horology

Presenting an exceptionally rare, museum-quality French quarter-repeating pocket watch featuring a fully mechanical Jaquemart (automaton) dial. Dating to the dawn of the 19th century (circa 1800), this stunning 200-year-old horological masterpiece combines the mechanical genius of a high-complication repeating movement with the exquisite theatrical artistry of classic European automata.

Measuring an impressive and substantial 55mm in diameter, the watch is housed in a beautifully preserved 18k gold-plated solid silver (Vermeil) case. It remains in excellent, crisp working order and is accompanied by its winding key.

The Dial: Mechanical Theater & Mythological Artistry

The face of this timepiece is a breathtaking work of decorative art, featuring a deep translucent cobalt blue enamel background that creates a striking, night-sky contrast with the applied multi-tone gold and silver ornamentation:

• The Jaquemarts (Automata): Two beautifully sculpted neoclassical figures stand on either side of the central time display. When the repeating mechanism is activated via the pendant, these figures physically move their arms in sync with the chimes, visually “striking” the two silver bells mounted above the dial with their hammers.

• The Ornamentation: The lower portion of the dial features an intricately chased multi-gold flower basket (corbeille de fleurs), flanked by elegant floral garlands and classical columns supporting the figures.

• The Central Dial: A pristine white enamel ring displaying elegant Breguet-style Arabic numerals, paired with classic open-tipped hands, allowing for effortless legibility without distracting from the surrounding mechanical performance.

The Case & Movement

• The Case: A heavy, robust 55mm vermeil case featuring a finely ribbed, reeded coin-edge bezel and case band that showcases minimal wear for its age. The interior dust cover/cuvette is cleanly stamped with the serial marking JJ 5542 T13.

• The Movement: Behind the dial lies a spectacular, high-grade gilded repeating movement. It features an exquisitely hand-pierced and engraved balance cock with a central ruby endstone, a silver regulator disk, and a complex train of gears dedicated to powering the on-demand quarter-striking sequence. When the pendant is depressed, the watch cleanly strikes the hours on a deep-toned internal gong, followed by double-gong strikes (high/low) for each elapsed quarter-hour.

Historical Context: The Era of the Miniature Automaton

The turn of the 19th century marked the absolute pinnacle of luxury automaton production in Paris and Geneva. Originally designed to allow the elite to discreetly tell time in the dark before the widespread use of matches, repeating watches quickly evolved from utilitarian novelties into ultimate status symbols.

Integrating Jaquemarts—animated figures named after the monumental clocktower jacks of medieval Europe—into a portable pocket watch required an extraordinary level of microscopic micro-engineering. Only the most affluent nobility, military elite, and merchant princes of the Napoleonic era could afford such bespoke mechanical marvels. To find an example today that survives not only with its delicate enamel intact but also with the striking linkage and figures perfectly synchronized is exceedingly rare.

Condition Report

• Movement: Running smoothly, keeping good period-correct time. The quarter-repeating mechanism fires crisp and clear on demand, and both automaton figures animate flawlessly in perfect sync with the acoustic chimes.

• Dial: The cobalt blue enamel is exceptionally vibrant. There are minor, expected age-related traces near the outer perimeter edges, but no distracting cracks or structural damage to the central white enamel dial. Figures and bells retain crisp, high-relief detail.

• Case: The 18k gold over silver (vermeil) finish shows superb color and luster. Hinge is tight; the case snaps shut securely. Expected light hairline handling marks consistent with a 200-year-old artifact.

Collector’s Note

For the serious collector of antique timepieces, early mechanical marvels, or high-end European artifacts, this pocket watch represents a rare opportunity to secure an investment-grade piece of horological history. Ready for immediate display or inclusion in a premium estate collection.

Shipping & Handling Policy

• Worldwide Shipping: Ships via highly secure, fully insured premium courier (DHL Express / FedEx Priority) with signature tracking.

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The watch comes with an APPRAISAL CERTIFICATE FOR $15,500.00