Enamel Minute Repeater Chronograph Pocket Watch
Enamel Minute Repeater Chronograph Pocket Watch made for the Indian Market
Lévy Hermanos, Switzerland
Enameling attributed to P. Amédée Champod
Circa 1890
A masterpiece of Swiss craftsmanship, this Lévy Hermanos pocket watch is an extraordinary example of horological artistry. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, this minute-repeating chronograph pocket watch showcases an exquisitely painted enamel scene attributed to the celebrated P. Amédée Champod. The case back depicts a dramatic tiger attack, capturing a hunting party atop an elephant, which would have greatly appealed to the Indian and Chinese markets. Framed by a champlevé enameled band and adorned with pearl settings, the timepiece exemplifies the fusion of fine watchmaking and high artistry. The white enamel dial features radial Roman numerals, a subsidiary seconds dial and gilt brass paste-set hands, reflecting the elegance and precision of Swiss horology.
One of the most celebrated enamel painters of the late 19th century, Pierre-Amédée Champod was renowned for his dynamic hunting scenes. A student of Huguenin, Sauerländer and Charles Glardon, Champod developed an exceptional technique, earning recognition at the 1900 Paris Universal Exhibition. His compositions were prized for their movement, detail and realism, making this pocket watch a remarkable example of his work.
The firm that commissioned the beautiful enamelwork, Lévy Hermanos, was established in the late 19th century by brothers Adolphe, Charles and Raphaël Lévy. Originally from Alsace, France, the Lévy brothers fled to the Philippines after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. They founded their company in Iloilo in 1873, later expanding to Manila and establishing branches in Hong Kong, Singapore, New York and Paris. The firm was known for its high-quality timepieces and jewelry, and they often collaborated with renowned Swiss watchmakers, including Omega, to produce co-branded watches.
Case diameter: 53 mm
Period: 19th Century
Origin: Other Europe
Type: Pocket Watches