1896 William Ehrhardt Victorian Silver English Lever Pocket Watch – Double Albert Chain, Vesta & Fob

A fine and beautifully preserved Victorian silver pocket watch by William Ehrhardt, dating to 1896 and accompanied by an impressive hallmarked silver Double Albert chain, engraved Vesta case and decorative silver fob. Ehrhardt was one of Birmingham's respected watch manufacturers during the late 19th century, known for producing quality English lever watches. This handsome example features a substantial 52.5mm silver case bearing full Birmingham hallmarks for 1896, with an attractive coin-edged surround and vacant cartouche to the reverse.

The watch features a classic white enamel dial with bold Roman numerals, elegant gold-tone hands and a subsidiary seconds register at 6 o'clock. The dial is beautifully preserved without major cracks or chips, while the heavy silver case retains its original character with well-fitting hinges and a strong bow. Inside is a traditional key-wound English lever movement, which appears clean and is currently running. A winding key is included.

What makes this offering particularly appealing is the accompanying hallmarked silver Double Albert chain dating to 1918, complete with individually hallmarked links, T-bar and dog clips. The chain is further complemented by an ornate engraved silver Vesta match case hallmarked Birmingham 1910, together with an attractive silver fob featuring a contrasting gold-coloured centre, hallmarked Birmingham 1921. Although assembled from different periods, these pieces make a beautifully matched ensemble that captures the character and craftsmanship of traditional English pocket watches.

Key Details

• Circa: 1896
• Maker: William Ehrhardt, Birmingham, England
• Movement: Key-Wound English Lever, Currently Running
• Case: Hallmarked Silver, 52.5mm Diameter
• Dial: White Enamel with Roman Numerals and Subsidiary Seconds
• Accessories: Hallmarked Silver Double Albert Chain (1918), Silver Vesta Case (1910), Silver Fob (1921), and Winding Key