C.1770s 20k Gold À Toc et À Tact Quarter Repeating Verge Pocket Watch By Dufalga

Magnificent 20ct Gold Enamel À Toc et À Tact Quarter Repeating Verge Pocket Watch by Dufalga Genève, circa 1770s. An exceptional late 18th century gold, enamel and diamond set quarter repeating verge pocket watch by Dufalga Genève, housed in a richly decorated three colour gold case. The watch features a white enamel dial with Roman numerals, outer Arabic minute track and finely shaped gilt hands. The front bezel is set with rose cut diamonds, with further chased and engraved gold decoration surrounding the case. The reverse is particularly striking, centred by a finely painted enamel scene depicting two classical female figures within an interior setting. The scene is framed by elaborate chased three colour gold foliage and circular applied gold discs, giving the case wonderful depth and decorative presence.

The movement is a full plate verge fusee movement with chain fusee, three arm steel balance and engraved signature Dufalga Genève. The watch is fitted with a rear bell and functions as a quarter repeater, operated by the plunger at the pendant. The repeater is working well, with a pleasing tone. Total weight 97.5g Measures 46mm across. a couple of rose cut diamonds missing from bezel.

A large 5mm rose cut diamond is set to the case opening pusher, adding to the luxurious finish of the watch.

Philippe Cafarello Dufalga was an important 18th century Geneva watchmaker of French origin. Born in France in 1712, he later settled in Geneva, where he became a citizen in 1745. He is known to have signed watches under the name Dufalga, and his work is associated with fine Geneva watchmaking of the late 18th century. This example, signed Dufalga Genève, represents the luxury end of his production, combining a quarter repeating verge fusee movement with an exceptionally ornate three colour gold, enamel and diamond set case.

_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))