Pendant Watch
C. De Lespée
(French, act. 1620)
Dateca. 1620
MediumGold, rock crystal, and enamel
Dimensions2 5/8 x 1 9/16 x 1 1/16 in. (6.6 x 3.9 x 2.8 cm)
Credit LineBequest of Winthrop Kellogg Edey, 1999
Accession number1999.6.18
CommentaryBy about 1580, the drums of the first portable timekeepers had evolved into more convenient pendant watches that could be worn on a chain suspended around the neck. However, they were unreliable and valued primarily as luxury items until 1675, when the balance spring was introduced. With its rock crystal case and cloisonné enamel decoration, this early French watch is especially rare. Nothing is known of C. de Lespée, whose name appears on the movement.
Source: Vignon, Charlotte. The Frick Collection Decorative Arts Handbook. New York: The Frick Collection/Scala, 2015.
Not On View
Abraham-Louis Breguet
ca. 1795–after 1807
possibly 17th century or 19th century
