Late Edo Period
Turtle Shell Chiming Pocket Watch
The compact watch was reportedly a possession of Nariaki Tokugawa (1800 to 1860), a lord of the Mito Clan. The casing is made of turtle shell decorated with a lacquer relief design. Equipped with a balance wheel with a hairspring, crown escapement, and striking function.
| Name | Turtle Shell Chiming Pocket Watch |
|---|---|
| Time/Period | Late Edo Period |
| Country | Japan |
| Additional information | While pocket watches were preferred in Europe, the “inro” (or pillbox) watch was designed for well-to-do Japanese who wore kimonos, garments without pockets. The inro was highly regarded as an artwork. |
