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Georgian Gold Watch Key

Regular price €790,00
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    • A Georgian gold watch key, c.1820, once worn on a fob chain to wind a pocket watch and now a charming pendant.

      Before watches wound themselves, every gentleman carried a small key on his watch chain. The tapered pipe at the base fitted over the winding post, and a turn or two kept the watch running. Because these keys hung on show, goldsmiths made them into little jewels in their own right.

      Here the key is crowned by an oval gold bead with a softly frosted surface, held by four raised rope-twist bands. Above it, a looped gold knot links to the suspension ring, so the key turns and catches the light as it moves.

      It is French, in 18K gold, and carries a French maker's mark.

      Light and easy to wear, it hangs beautifully on a fine chain and makes a quietly unusual gift for a collector or watch lover.

      Details: c.1820; France; 18K gold, French maker's mark; 4.3 x 1cm; 5.05g.

      Condition: Good. Light wear consistent with age.
    A Georgian gold watch key, c.1820, once worn on a fob chain to wind a pocket watch and now a charming pendant.

    Before watches wound themselves, every gentleman carried a small key on his watch chain. The tapered pipe at the base fitted over the winding post, and a turn or two kept the watch running. Because these keys hung on show, goldsmiths made them into little jewels in their own right.

    Here the key is crowned by an oval gold bead with a softly frosted surface, held by four raised rope-twist bands. Above it, a looped gold knot links to the suspension ring, so the key turns and catches the light as it moves.

    It is French, in 18K gold, and carries a French maker's mark.

    Light and easy to wear, it hangs beautifully on a fine chain and makes a quietly unusual gift for a collector or watch lover.

    Details: c.1820; France; 18K gold, French maker's mark; 4.3 x 1cm; 5.05g.

    Condition: Good. Light wear consistent with age.

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