Antique Paul Jeannot Pocket Watch In 18k Gold. 20 Jewel. Switzerland Circa 1880

This splendid pocket watch, manufactured by Paul Jeannot in Geneva around the year 1880, is a true jewel of 19th-century Swiss watchmaking. Made entirely in 18-karat gold (18K), with a total weight of more than 149 grams, of which more than 70 grams are 18K gold, this savonette watch features an elegant triple-cover construction: outer cover, dust cover, and movement cover, all finely crafted. The front lid displays a refined guilloché engraving that adds texture and depth, surrounded by a delicate beaded bezel and a smooth central circle, perfect for a family crest or a dedication.

Upon opening the lid, we find a dial of extraordinary beauty: in the center, a cluster of golden flowers engraved in gold forms a delicate rosette that subtly contrasts with the silver base, decorated with damascened motifs. The black enamel Roman numerals and the blued steel Breguet hands complete a classical and harmonious composition. The small seconds subdial at six adds a technical and functional note that reinforces its mechanical value.

The mechanism is a testament to the high technical level of its time: 20-jewel movement, Breguet hairspring in palladium, straight-line anchor escapement with visible double plate, compensated balance wheel, all clearly specified on the interior engraved lid. This inner cover, decorated with ornamental engravings and the manufacturer’s signature, also serves as additional protection for the mechanism, highlighting the level of care and design applied in its creation.

The micrometric escapement adjustment is an uncommon feature in watches of this era, allowing for precise control of the balance oscillation, increasing the reliability of the watch. The engraved serial number (1895), along with the Swiss gold hallmarks and the signature “Paul Jeannot Genève,” guarantee its authenticity and noble origin.

Despite its more than 140 years, this watch is in excellent condition, with the gold’s shine perfectly preserved and the movement in full working order. The dial shows a slight uniform wear that only accentuates its historical character and authenticity.

It is a piece that combines luxury, history, and technique, ideal for a demanding collector, to give as a gift on a very special occasion, or as a long-term investment object. This watch is perfect for those who appreciate the art of watchmaking and wish to preserve a unique piece with historical and heritage value. Its timeless aesthetics make it a secure investment and a standout piece within any specialized collection.

Do not miss the opportunity to acquire a true watchmaking work of art with more than a century of history.

Measurements: 56 mm (2.20 in). Weight: 149.6 g.

History of Paul Jeannot

Paul Jeannot was a renowned Genevan watchmaker active in the second half of the 19th century, especially recognized for the production of pocket watches in precious metals and high-end movements. His signature “Paul Jeannot Genève” is associated with highly precise pieces, many of them featuring technical complications and movements carefully decorated. Jeannot developed watches that often included advanced features for their time, such as Breguet hairsprings, compensated balance wheels, and high-precision escapements—elements highly valued by today’s collectors. His works were exported to demanding markets such as the French, English, and American, where the demand for high-end Swiss watches was constantly growing during the Victorian era.

The city of Geneva, home to his workshop, was at that time one of the most important centers of world watchmaking. The context was favorable to the rise of watchmakers like Jeannot, who competed with houses such as Longines, Vacheron & Constantin, or Breguet. The inclusion of 20 jewels in the movements was a mark of quality, as these precious stones were used to minimize friction at critical points in the mechanism. These types of details positioned Paul Jeannot as a reference in precision and elegance. Today, his pieces are rare and highly valued on the international market, especially those that preserve their original mechanism, visible signatures, and 18K gold cases with engraved decoration. This type of watch has not only aesthetic value but also historical and investment value.