Ever since repeater pocket watches were made over 300 years ago for the wealthy and nobility, they have been seriously collected by those who could afford them. There is something fascinating about their characteristic tiny gongs that ring out when a lever on the side is pushed in. The original purpose of the gongs was to tell time in the dark. in addition to striking the hour some chimed half, quarter hours and minutes.
Over the years innovations have been made that dictate the price. if they have historical significance, such as being owned by a famous person the price goes up. Some
also had rotating discs with the face of the sun for day and the moon depicting the night. The sun and moon dial watches were popular around 1710. After 1710 ornamental cases became trendy and were elaborately decorated with embossed gold, silver or enamel.
By the 19th century their popularity spread to russia, Turkey and the Orient with case designs related to those countries. One of the many types is the “Carillon” repeater that has a chromatic sequence of usually three tones created by small bells that chime every quarter of an hour.
Rarities are the automaton repeaters. Several years ago an unusual example came to auction. it was a minute repeater gold pocket watch that had a dial with two Victorian ladies in enameled pink and blue dresses on ei- ther side. Their hands were raised to each strike a bell to mark minutes and hours.
Surprisingly, when a repeater turns up in a desk drawer or estate sale it goes unrecognized. it’s that extra slide, striker or extra long stem that are the clues.
Unfortunately repeaters have been faked and restored ever since 1800. Over-restored watches that are genuine often sell for less than the fakes. This is because the forgeries are so elab- orate that it is hard to believe they are fakes.
If you are thinking of beginning a collection keep in mind that the hammers should strike the gong not the case. if they are hitting the case the sound will be dull instead of clear and bold.
Researching makers and history is important. For example, not all fine repeaters were signed. The Swiss firm of le phare made thousands of fine, unsigned pieces. if you have done your homework you may discover one at a bargain price.
While collectors have always loved repeaters their popularity declined around World War 1. Nonetheless they have continued to be made by top European and American Companies. ( information and pictures provided by Anne Gilbert.)
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