Jean-Baptiste BAILLON in Paris - Lot 388

Jean-Baptiste BAILLON in Paris Important "Oignon" pocket watch with striking mechanism Louis XV period, circa 1740-1750 Rare and precious timepiece in 18K yellow gold 750 thousandths. - Thick, round yellow gold "onion"-type case, floral chased reverse, glass bezel opening onto the dial. Suspension clasp. - White enamel dial with hours in Roman numerals and minutes in Arabic numerals on the outer edge. Louis XV" gold hands, finely cut and engraved. Signed "Baptiste Baillon" in the center. - Movement: mechanical, key-wound (cock), with circular gilded brass plate. Escapement with verge (meeting wheel), silver advance/delay setting disc. Finely chased and openworked gilded metal cock. On-demand hour and quarter chimes. Movement signed Baptiste Baillon Paris and numbered 1855. Diameter: 52 cm Gross weight: 111.64 g Condition: Very good overall condition, with slight wear marks and micro-scratches. The chasing on the reverse retains good definition. Enamel in good condition. Operation is not guaranteed. A complete overhaul is recommended for this high period piece. Note: Jean-Baptiste Baillon, watchmaker to Marie Leszczynska and later Marie-Antoinette, was renowned for his extremely complex and precise mechanisms. Gold "onion" watches with striking complications are much rarer than their silver or gilt metal counterparts, making this example an exceptional showcase piece for any collector of fine antique watchmaking.