Overview
This is an authentic mid-19th-century Swiss key-wind, key-set pocket watch signed 'Baume Geneva' on the frosted-gilt bridge movement. The inner cuvette bears a charming historical presentation engraving: 'Fred Breitinger Christmas, 1867'.
Preliminary identification
Baume Geneva Key-Wind Pocket Watch, c.1867
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
Engraved for Fred Breitinger on Christmas Day in 1867, this Swiss pocket watch survived over 150 years. Its movement was made by Baume, the historic house that would become luxury giant Baume & Mercier.
Maker / Origin
Founded in 1830 in Les Bois by brothers Louis-Victor and Célestin Baume, the firm expanded internationally under the motto 'Accept only perfection, only manufacture watches of the highest quality.' Their London branch, Baume Brothers, brought Swiss precision horology across the Victorian English-speaking world before the brand eventually merged to form Baume & Mercier in 1918.
Condition & Value
The case shows surface tarnish, scratches on the inner cuvette, and the pendant bow (carrying loop) is missing. The enamel dial is intact with minor surface wear. Movement is complete but unserviced. Condition and missing bow reduce current collector value by about 30-40%.
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Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.