Movado

A gilt metal and lacquer purse watch with concealed watch, Circa 1950

Dial: silvered Caliber: mechanical, 15 jewels Case: monogramed gilt metal and lacquer, dial concealed by spring loaded cylinder Case number: 46, 646, 1'891'611 Size: 52 x 18 mm Signed: case, dial and movementThe 1920s and 1930s saw the rise of international travel, and brands, eager to capitalize on a growing population of the global jet set, created various timepieces inspired by the burgeoning Art Movements of the time that were both fashionable and practical. The purse watch was one such invention that symbolized this desire for modernity at the time. Possession of a stylish and discreet transportable timepiece would imply an on-the-go lifestyle, which coincided with women's utilitarian need for timekeeping as the century progressed and more women joined the workforce to fill the gap left by men drafted to the war front of the two World Wars. Most purse watches were designed to be clipped to a purse or an article of clothing, or easily converted to a miniature standing desk clock, and many were housed in protective cases that were lavishly decorated. The likes of Rolex, Vacheron Constantin, and Cartier decorated their purse watches with engravings, enamel, precious gemstones, and exotic leathers. The popularity and practicality of the purse watch also meant more accessible but still beautifully decorated examples were available. The Swiss firm Movado took the crown for creating the most famous purse watch the Ermeto. Beloved for its sleek design, the Ermeto was beloved by contemporary tastemakers such as King Albert I of Belgium, the Duke of Windsor and Andy Warhol. The present example features an unusual design by the preeminent maker of purse watches. The cylinder design is highlighted by two red lacquered spheres that when pressed, a spring loaded mechanism turns the case to reveal the dial underneath.