In my opinion these types of cases represent some of the best value for money when it comes to pocket watches. These metal cased (and sometimes silver) watches were decorated with the highest quality scenes made by three case maker’s in particular, Holy Freres, Georges Frantz and Huguenin. The detail on these cases is always intricate and well defined and also these were made in relatively low numbers, per design This is a metal cased watch and was made circa 1900 Movement – the gilt bridge movement has a cylinder escapement and is in 90% mint condition – a few marks on the winding wheels.

Case – the movement comes in a metal open face case, which has a hinged inner, back and snap on bezel. The back cover is decorated with a raised scene of a tennis match between two ladies in typical late Victorian dresses and hats. They are using old style rackets and a large version of this, with two balls is in the foreground. The case is decorated with swirls and leaves around the outside and bezel the case also has coin edged sides. The case is signed “Franier”. The case is in 75% mint condition – the case is more metallic than usual, with a dull course finish on the inside and the outside shows a little wear.

Dial – the white enamel dial has gilt filigree hands and is in 95% mint condition – a few tiny marks.