265 - John May

John May A high-quality London pair-cased verge pocket watch Dimensions: 53 mm, circa 1722, Weight: 138 g, Origin: England Case: Outer case—18K gold, smooth, engraved with flowers and acanthus tendrils around the opening button, case maker’s punch mark “ALR.” Inner case—18K gold, smooth, case maker’s punch mark “ALR.” Dial: Gold champlevé. Movement: Full-plate movement, chain/fusee, three-arm steel balance. According to Brian Loomes, John May was born in the Netherlands. He was appointed an honorary member of the Watchmakers’ Guild in 1692 and appears to have been an active member until 1702. He died in 1738. Case: very good, slightly worn. Dial: very good. Movement: very good, in need of restoration.