Rare Antique c.1850s Solid Silver 0.800 Full Hunter Ottoman Pocket Watch – 49mm

During the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire represented a highly lucrative and competitive market for elite European watchmakers. Swiss and French horologists crafted specialized timepieces explicitly designed to appeal to the tastes of Turkish dignitaries, merchants, and the upper class. These “Ottoman market” watches are characterized by their elaborate floral decorations, robust cases, and the distinctive use of Ottoman (Turkish) numerals on the dial. Surviving examples in perfect condition are exceedingly rare and highly coveted by serious horological collectors today.

Item Specifications

• Circa: 1850s

• Case Material: Solid 0.800 Silver

• Case Style: Full Hunter

• Case Diameter: 49mm

• Dial: White enamel with hand-painted floral motifs and Ottoman numerals

• Movement: Key-wind, key-set mechanical lever movement

• Condition: Perfect / Museum Quality

• Included: Antique pocket watch and winding key

Detailed Description

The Case ; The watch is housed in a substantial 49mm solid silver full hunter case, stamped with the 0.800 silver purity mark. Both the front and back covers feature magnificent, deep engravings. The craftsmanship displays a masterful combination of engine-turned guilloché patterns bordered by highly detailed, sweeping floral and foliate motifs. A central, unmonogrammed shield cartouche graces the front cover, ready for personalization or best left in its pristine historical state.

Hallmarks & Stampings ; The inside of the case back is fully hallmarked. It features the 0.800 silver purity stamp, a lion hallmark, and a distinct maker’s mark featuring the letter “M” centered within a prominent multi-pointed star and laurel wreath. The case is also marked with the serial number 515.

The Dial ; Protected beneath the hunter cover lies an absolutely breathtaking white enamel dial. The dial features crisp, clearly visible Ottoman (Turkish Arabic) numerals—a hallmark of timepieces commissioned for the Eastern market. It is further elevated by delicate, hand-painted polychrome floral garlands in pink, blue, and green that intertwine with the chapter ring. The watch retains its ornate, period-correct hands and features a beautifully proportioned sub-seconds dial positioned at 6 o’clock.

The Movement ; The heart of this historical piece is a stunningly preserved key-wind and key-set mechanical movement. The frosted gilt brass plates remain brilliant and untarnished. It features an exposed balance and a regulator scale marked with “AVANCE / RETARD” as well as “FORWARDS”. The movement bridge is proudly stamped with the same “M” star and laurel wreath maker’s mark found inside the case, ensuring all parts are original and matching.

Condition Report This museum-quality timepiece is in perfect antique condition. The case hinges are tight, the covers snap shut securely, and the intricate silver engravings remain sharp and unrubbed by time. The enamel dial is vibrant and impeccably preserved. The movement is exceptionally clean and mechanically sound.

Please review all provided photographs as they serve as an integral part of the description and condition report.