John Forrest

Sterling Silver, 52mm John Forrest London Pair Case Key-Wound Pocket Watch, circa 1899

Description: A product of the late Victorian watch trade, this example carries the signature of John Forrest, who styled himself " Chronometer Maker to the Admiralty" . Although Forrest died in the 1880's, his name continued to appear on watches produced well into the early 20th century. This particular piece features a case supplied by The Lancashire Watch Company (T.P. Hewitt), a significant domestic supplier attempting to compete with Swiss and American imports. Court records show a legal dispute in 1905 cast doubt on the legitimacy of Forrest’s claimed Admiralty connection, further adding intrigue to watches bearing his name. Presented in running condition at time of auction, yet supplied without winding key. Model: John Forrest London Year: Circa 1899 Material: Solid sterling silver full-hunter case with Chester hallmarks and T.P.H. (Thomas Peter Hewitt) sponsor's mark, total finished weight 125.4 grams Case Dimensions: 52mm diameter, 19mm thickness Dial and Hands: White enamel dial with black Roman numerals, outer minute track, golden steel spade and whip hands, subsidiary seconds at 6 o'clock Crystal: Domed mineral glass Calibre: Key-wound mechanical movement, unsigned lever escapement Box/Papers: None supplied, is without winding key All watches are sold "As Is". Webb's makes no guarantee of the future working order of the watch or battery life and timepieces may need to be serviced to improve accuracy. Generally, none of the watches have been tested for time keeping accuracy or running time, nor have any seals been tested on water-resistant watches. If they have been tested this is for indication purposes only and not guaranteed. Vintage watches may have been restored or repaired over the years and as such, Webb's cannot guarantee that individual component parts are original or of manufacturer origin.