Gilt metal & Rock crystal Jean Rousseau verge watch in the shape of a crucifix. Made 1630

Information

• Brand: Jean Rousseau
• Made: 1630
• Model: Verge watch
• Reference: -
• Calibre: -
• Movement: Manual - Partially foliate engraved, gilt-brass cruciform plate with chain fusée, verge escapement, three-arm steel balance, pierced and engraved cock secured by a single screw, offset worm-and-wheel set-up with blued steel brackets and decorative hypbrid pillars.
• Material: Gilt metal & Rock crystal
• Features/complications: Gilt metal case engraved with foliate design and a hinged rock crystal cover
• Dial: Silver dial featuring engraved Roman numeral chapter ring with half hour divisions and inner quarter hour ring with a single blued steel hand centering on engraved town scene. The cruciform dial plate is engraved with cherubs. The bottom depicts a a pious figure prating at the foot of the cross with a skull in view
• Case dimensions: 34 x 52mm
• Bracelet/strap: N/A
• Accessories: N/A
• SKU: 2330

Essay

Jean Rousseau (1580-1642) worked in Geneva where he was known for his high quality watches. He was master of the watch makers company of Geneva. As Maitre Horologer he specialised in form watches, most notably animals, birds and crucifix watches. Rousseau had five daughters and seven sons, several of whom followed him into the watch making trade.