Daisy Brooch/pendant with hidden watch

Daisy brooch/pendant with hidden watch
Platinum, gold, set with 21 diamonds
Signed: Paul Robin; Paris, ca. 1885
Watch Jaeger-LeCoultre, with anchor escapement, set with rubies

Weight: 71 grams
Diameter: 58 mm

This firm, established by Jean-Paul Robin (1797-1869), was one of the most distinguished jewellers in Paris under King Louis-Philippe and Emperor Napoleon III. Jean-Paul died in 1868, his two sons Prospère-Paul and Edouard succeeded him under the name of Robin Frères. Edouard died in 1880, after which Prospère-Paul (born 1843) continued the business alone. The entire trade held him in high esteem for his professional expertise, great courtesy and kindness; his towering presence earned him the nickname Robin Le Grand (Tall Robin). He continued to produce the same kind of finely made jewels that secured the reputation of the firm, especially matt gold pieces and modern, attractive and elegant jewels, like this striking example.