Fellows Auctioneers is set to unveil a remarkable piece of horological history in their upcoming collection – a stunning open-face pocket watch from the late 17th century, crafted by the esteemed watchmaker, Isaac Perrot. This exquisite timepiece, Lot 310, will headline the Watches auction on June 13. Considering how rare a find it is, it is anticipated to fetch between £1,200 and £1,800 only.
The watch’s outer case, made of leather and adorned with intricate white metal piqué decoration, showcases a technique where tiny pins create an elaborate design. This method closely mirrors a similar watch housed in the Historical Museum of Basel, which features an enamelled gold watch with gold piqué on a leather case. Mr. Perrot’s use of white metal piqué adds a unique twist, enhancing the luxurious appeal of this masterpiece.
Steven Yambo, Watch Specialist at Fellows, shared, “I have been working at Fellows for 14 years and this pocket watch is the oldest watch we have had. It is an honour to see the workmanship and fine detail first hand.”
Isaac Perrot, a luminary in horology, is celebrated for his unparalleled craftsmanship and innovative designs. Active in Switzerland from 1644 to 1693, Mr. Perrot’s work contributed significantly to Geneva’s prestigious watchmaking industry.
His watches were crafted during a transformative era which saw Restoration and the Enlightenment. The late 17th and early 18th centuries in England saw London as a vibrant center of trade, culture, and scientific progress, with the rise of the Royal Society and numerous technological advancements. These developments inspired artisans like Mr. Perrot, whose work mirrored the period’s innovations and catered to an affluent class that valued both functionality and elegance.
Known for intricate engravings, highly polished movements, and the use of high-quality materials, his timepieces are prized for their durability, accuracy, and aesthetic beauty. Mr. Perrot’s dedication to perfection and precision laid the groundwork for the esteemed reputation of Swiss watchmaking, making his watches highly coveted by collectors. He was also a mentor who fostered future generations of watchmakers, cementing his legacy.
