Without a doubt, during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the finest watches in the world were being produced by British makers, and are now cherished by collectors for their rarity, complexity, and beauty.

The present open-face minute repeating grande & petite sonnerie pocket watch from the house of Rogers, Rock & Co. London features all the elements that make British watchmaking so coveted by collectors: not only does it feature the grail of watchmaking: a grand & petite sonnerie, but features a heavy case and a beautiful frosted gilt movement with ¾ plate, engraved balance cock, red rubies, gold chatons and blued screws.

The caseback elegantly features the monogram JC intertwined with the initials SOD. The inner cuvette features a lavish enamel portrait of an Indian Rahj.

The case – as with many high-grade British pocket watches was made by Alfred Strahm, is testified by the AS initials inside the cuvette.

The minute repeater is activated via a slide between 7 and 8 o’clock and produces a deep and strong chime. The grande & petite sonnerie activators are elegantly hidden beneath the front bezel.