A gold pair cased verge watch, J. Bayley, London, circa 1750

gilt full plate movement, verge escapement, decoratively pierced and engraved balance with winged masked balance cock, chain and fusee, square baluster pillars, singed J. Bayley, London; white enamel dial, Roman numerals, outer Arabic minute track, blued steel beetle and poker hands; plain gold inner case, winding square to case back, gold outer case with engraving of a tree beneath the word Revirescit

Dr William Belsches of Toft and Fort St David's, Madras (1717-1753)

The arms are those of Belsches of Tofts.

Movement not working at the time of cataloguing. Dial with chips by the catch at 6 o'clock. Inner case with indentations, scuffs and scratches throughout, bezel does not sit flush to the band. Outer case with scuffs and scratches throughout, polished and engraving to case back rubbed significantly. Thumb piece worn.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."