Lot 121

DuBois et Fils, Swiss, 55 mm, 125 g, circa 1850
An unusual quarter repeating pocket chronometer with spring detent escapement
Case: 18k gold. Dial: enamel. Movm.: bridge movement, chain/fusee, 2 hammers / 2 gongs, gold screw compensation balance.
This remarkable movement, where mainspring and escapement staff have been made in one piece, was fitted into a new solid gold case with marvellous engine-turned ornamentation – a worthy setting for such a fine and complex construction.
Du Bois & Fils
In 1785 Philippe Du Bois and his sons founded the "Du Bois & Fils 1785" watch company at the family seat in Le Locle. Du Bois had already established extensive business connections all over Europe and America as a cloth merchant, which made things much easier for the start-up watch company. During the 19th century Du Bois & Fils opened branches in Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and the United States and business boomed. Due to its proximity to the trade fairs the German Frankfurt branch was particularly important.
Source: http://www.dubois.de/n251710/i252594.html, as of 03/12/2011