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8
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8. Henry Capt. A unique and very interesting 22K key wind wa…
8
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8. Henry Capt. A unique and very interesting 22K key wind wa…
Estimate €30,000 - €40,000
Voluntary lot
Description
8. Henry Capt. A unique and very interesting 22K key wind watch royal ring bearing the Bourbon Orléans crest to glass
Date: Circa 1830
Movement: Jewelled key wind
Dial: White, black Roman numerals, black outer minute track, blued steel 'Breguet style' hands
Case: Ring, crest to glass, guichet to back to wind the watch and open the movement
Signed: Dial
Size: Ring size 56
Weight: 21,51g
Accompaniments: Box, key
Dating from circa 1830, this remarkable and highly unusual watch ring by Henry Capt represents a fascinating intersection of horology, jewellery, and aristocratic symbolism during the early 19th century. Concealed within a substantial 22K gold chevalière-style ring, the miniature timepiece demonstrates the extraordinary level of technical miniaturisation achieved by Genevan watchmakers during the period, at a time when such creations were produced almost exclusively for elite and royal clientele.
Particularly notable is the presence of the Bourbon-Orléans crest applied to the crystal, strongly suggesting an association with the House of Orléans, one of the most prominent branches of the French royal family. Watches and jewellery bearing dynastic insignia were often commissioned as symbols of prestige, political allegiance, or personal identity, especially during the politically turbulent decades surrounding the Restoration and July Monarchy periods in France.
The present example further illustrates the taste for highly refined objets de curiosité that flourished among European aristocracy during the first half of the 19th century. Combining precious metal craftsmanship, royal iconography, and miniature horology within a wearable jewel, this watch ring stands as both a technical achievement and a rare historical artefact reflecting the intimate relationship between watchmaking and courtly culture during the period.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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