Antique Verge Fusee Pocket Watch. Double Case. John Ryland. England, C.1770

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This antique verge fusee pocket watch signed by the London watchmaker John Ryland around 1770 perfectly embodies the refinement and technical skill that characterised eighteenth century English horology. With its traditional double case, an inner case designed to protect the movement and an outer case offering presence and security, this watch stands out as an exceptional piece that combines elegance, balance and significant historical value.

The outer case made of authentic tortoiseshell immediately captures the eye. Its natural pattern displays a warm range of tones that give the watch a unique and deeply attractive character with a texture that shifts between luminous amber and rich browns creating a singular visual effect full of personality. In prestigious Georgian period timepieces the choice of tortoiseshell was reserved for owners seeking distinction, since it was considered an exclusive luxury material.

Opening the outer case reveals its inner treasure. The finely crafted movement is decorated with delicate engravings and a pierced balance bridge featuring a raised bird motif that seems to rise among the ornamental scrolls. This verge fusee movement with chain, numbered 4864 and signed John Ryland (Jno. Ryland), London, is a magnificent example of London watchmaking from the second half of the eighteenth century.

Everything in the movement from the old gilding to the blued screws and the overall harmony of the mechanism reveals the patient work of expert hands that shaped this exceptional piece more than two centuries ago. It is also notable that it works perfectly and keeps time with remarkable precision which adds decisive appeal for any lover of historical watchmaking. The enamel dial with stylised Roman numerals and blued steel hands is preserved in excellent condition without cracks or chips which highlights the superb state of conservation of the watch.

This piece stands out especially in a collection dedicated to antique horology where its technical beauty and authenticity are truly compelling. It also presents magnificently in a display cabinet where its presence and mechanical delicacy make it an admirable object. Its aesthetic harmony and perfect functioning make this watch an exceptional gift for anyone who appreciates eighteenth century watchmaking and objects with history.

This verge fusee pocket watch represents a singular opportunity to add to a collection an eighteenth century English piece in magnificent condition with unmistakable beauty and excellent performance. A historic watch ready to continue telling the time today with the same elegance it displayed more than two hundred years ago.

Measurements. Outer case 47 mm. Inner case 39 mm.

History of Verge Fusee Watches and of the Watchmaker John Ryland

The verge fusee watches represent one of the most influential chapters in European horological history. Their characteristic verge escapement combined with the fusee chain defined portable watchmaking from the sixteenth century to the early nineteenth century. This system regulated the force of the mainspring and provided a more stable and precise rate. During the Georgian period London established itself as the world’s leading centre for the production of these watches achieving admirable levels of technical quality and ornamentation. In this context the use of double cased watches became widespread with the outer case often made from noble materials such as tortoiseshell which added beauty and strong aesthetic presence.

As for the watchmaker John Ryland the preserved documentation is limited yet sufficient to place him among the artisans active in London between approximately 1760 and 1780. His signed and numbered watches are identified by their careful mechanical layout, decorative engravings and fidelity to the English school of the period. The presence of engraved motifs and pierced bridges, as well as the consecutive numbering observed in known examples, shows that Ryland belonged to the large group of London watchmakers whose production contributed to the prestige of eighteenth century English horology.

Verge fusee watches with tortoiseshell cases and engraved movements such as this example represent the perfect synthesis of noble materials and technical sophistication. Their historical relevance and distinctive elegance make them essential pieces for understanding the evolution of portable horology in Europe. We are professional antique dealers. To see more photos of this item, Please click on this link:

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