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Lot Essay
Manufactured in 1912, it is remarkable that this fresh to market and extremely attractive minute repeating pocket watch is still accompanied by its original box, original certificate, and even the original envelope for that certificate, a rarity for those collectors who are seeking to acquire a ‘complete’ watch.
One will notice the retailer’s stamp on the inside of the box, on the top left corner of the envelope, but it is also seen on the movement, alongside that of Patek Philippe. Retailed by Hope Brothers, Knoxville, Tennessee, clearly Patek Philippe made this watch specifically for their store. This landmark establishment was situated on the south side of Gay Street in the heart of town and was frequented by those looking for the most special watches and jewelry pieces at that time, all they had to do was look for the iconic clock that stood outside, a recognizable feature of the famous boutique.
For a watch that is over 100 years old, it is astonishing that the minute repeater sounds so pure, but that is to be expected from Patek Philippe production, who were known for making the finest complicated watches of the time. Upon closer inspection of this watch, one will notice the gorgeous blue/purple enamel which decorates the bezel, similarly, the same color is seen in the long Patek Philippe & Co. signature to the dial. The monogram to the case back upon first glance seems to contest in color, the richness matched in comparison, however, it is in fact a monogram filled with lapis lazuli, as confirmed on the Extract from the Patek Philippe archives.
J. Earnest Briscoe (1867-1939), Isabel White Briscoe (1876-1963)
A gift from wife to husband, the cuvette is engraved:
Made for J. Earnest Briscoe, Knoxville, Tenn., 1895-1920, From Isabel White Briscoe
To the best of our knowledge this watch has never before been offered in public.
One will notice the retailer’s stamp on the inside of the box, on the top left corner of the envelope, but it is also seen on the movement, alongside that of Patek Philippe. Retailed by Hope Brothers, Knoxville, Tennessee, clearly Patek Philippe made this watch specifically for their store. This landmark establishment was situated on the south side of Gay Street in the heart of town and was frequented by those looking for the most special watches and jewelry pieces at that time, all they had to do was look for the iconic clock that stood outside, a recognizable feature of the famous boutique.
For a watch that is over 100 years old, it is astonishing that the minute repeater sounds so pure, but that is to be expected from Patek Philippe production, who were known for making the finest complicated watches of the time. Upon closer inspection of this watch, one will notice the gorgeous blue/purple enamel which decorates the bezel, similarly, the same color is seen in the long Patek Philippe & Co. signature to the dial. The monogram to the case back upon first glance seems to contest in color, the richness matched in comparison, however, it is in fact a monogram filled with lapis lazuli, as confirmed on the Extract from the Patek Philippe archives.
J. Earnest Briscoe (1867-1939), Isabel White Briscoe (1876-1963)
A gift from wife to husband, the cuvette is engraved:
Made for J. Earnest Briscoe, Knoxville, Tenn., 1895-1920, From Isabel White Briscoe
To the best of our knowledge this watch has never before been offered in public.