Gold and Enamel Lorgnette with Concealed Watch

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Gold and Enamel Lorgnette with Concealed Watch

About the Item

This masterfully crafted gold lorgnette is an exemplary specimen of Swiss workmanship. Crafted in the manner of the renowned Rossel & Fils, the enchanting piece is formed of meticulously worked 18K gold with exquisite guilloché enameling and diamond accents. A simple press of a button on the side of the lorgnette causes the mechanism to engage and the spectacles to emerge from the side. Ingeniously designed, the glasses are easily folded and tucked back inside the case when not in use. Eyeglasses were firmly the province of men before the advent of the lorgnette in the 18th century, when early designs were eagerly adopted by the stylish young women of French society. Its name derives from the French word lorgner - meaning "to ogle or leer" - and many young socialites eagerly sought out these new and fashionable accessories to surreptitiously watch encounters from a distance. Madame de Pompadour, Madame du Barry, and Marie Antoinette were all known to carry such pieces, and by the 19th century, the lorgnette was firmly established as a practical and fashionable lady's accessory. Most examples, the present included, were designed to be worn on a chain around the neck, making them easily accessible, yet also demanding the finest of craftsmanship. What truly sets apart this piece, however, is that it also contains a concealed key wound watch. A separate button located on the front of the piece triggers the spring-loaded front cover, which opens to reveal the diminutive watch. Exceptionally rare, this exquisite object de vertu is one of only a handful of its kind known; only a very small number of other examples by the French firm of Rossel & Fils and the Swiss firm of Patek Philippe are known to have ever been on the market. Stunning in its artistry and craftsmanship, this watch flawlessly reflects the beauty and style that define its era. Complete with its original box and key. Circa 1860 4" length x 1" wide

Case Material:
Enamel
Stone:
Diamond
Case Dimensions:
Width: 1 in (25.4 mm)Length: 4 in (101.6 mm)
Style:
Victorian
Place of Origin:
Unknown
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Circa 1860
Condition:
Seller Location:
New Orleans, LA
Reference Number:
Seller: 30-75901stDibs: LU1354162731