Antique Swiss Record Watch Co. Pocket Watch 18K Gold, circa 1890

Antique Swiss Record Watch Co. Pocket Watch in Solid 18K Gold, circa 1890

This wonderful antique pocket watch is a true jewel of Swiss watchmaking, a piece that stands out not only for its nobility and quality, but above all for its truly extraordinary state of preservation. Manufactured circa 1890 by the prestigious firm Record Watch Co. in Chaux de Fonds, this watch conveys from the very first moment a rare sensation, that of holding a historical object that has reached our days almost intact.

The case is entirely made of solid 18 karat gold, hallmarked on all covers with a clearly visible 18K mark. It is an elegant savonette case, with front and back covers, both in impeccable condition, with firm hinges and precise closures that work perfectly. The exterior displays a refined guilloché decoration with a repeated floral motif, finely executed and remarkably well preserved, with the engravings still deep and crisp, a clear sign of minimal wear over more than 130 years. With an approximate diameter of 51 mm, the watch has a generous and highly appreciated presence, reinforced by its total weight of 99.7 grams, confirming a solid case rich in gold.

The dial is made of matte silver, not enamelled, and is presented in an absolutely exceptional condition, something truly rare in watches of this age. The surface retains a beautiful satin texture, uniform and clean, without stains or oxidation, conveying an extraordinary sense of freshness and elegance. The black Roman numerals are perfectly defined, offering clear and balanced legibility, accompanied by a precise peripheral minute track and a small seconds subdial at six o’clock, harmoniously integrated into the whole.

The center of the dial is richly decorated with gold toned metal appliqués, very likely gold, forming delicate floral motifs that add depth and sophistication. Around the perimeter stands out an elegant applied decorative garland in gold, framing the dial with great refinement and clearly elevating the aesthetic category of the watch. The blued steel hands, slender and perfectly proportioned, complete a dial of great beauty, balance and distinction, preserved almost like new. The blued steel hands, well proportioned and elegant, complete a dial of great beauty and harmony.

The movement, visible when opening the back cover, fully lives up to what the exterior promises. Signed Record Watch Co., it is a Swiss 15 jewel movement with lever escapement, as indicated by the inscription “Ancre 15 Rubis, Levier Visible”. It incorporates a Breguet hairspring, a technical detail that improves timekeeping regularity and confirms a higher level within its category. The mechanical assembly is clean, well preserved and features a classic bridge architecture, reflecting careful manufacturing designed to last. The watch works wonderfully well, with a stable and reliable rate, ready to continue operating for many decades to come.

This watch shows no notable defects. Its condition is so remarkable that it is difficult to find another comparable example. It is an ideal piece for a fine collection, a truly special gift, or even for occasional use, enjoyed with the peace of mind of knowing that it works perfectly and is preserved in an exceptional state. Holding it in hand is to feel the discreet luxury, precision and good taste of great Swiss watchmaking at the end of the nineteenth century.

Few pieces combine beauty, quality, history and state of preservation in such a balanced way. This watch is a unique opportunity to acquire an exceptional object, destined to continue being appreciated and admired for generations.

Measurements. Diameter 51 mm. Weight 99.7 g.

History of Record Watch Co.

Record Watch Co. is part of the rich Swiss watchmaking tradition that flourished in the Chaux de Fonds region at the end of the nineteenth century, one of the great world centers of fine watchmaking. From its origins, the firm stood out for the manufacture of reliable, well built and aesthetically refined watches, intended for a clientele that valued precision as much as elegance.

Definitive recognition of its know how came in 1961, when Record Watch Co. was acquired by Longines, becoming part of one of the great names in Swiss watchmaking. Today, antique Record watches, especially those made in solid gold and preserved in exceptional condition like this one, are highly appreciated by collectors, as they represent a golden era in which each watch was a true investment in quality, precision and beauty.