'Extraordinary' watch made for King James VI of Scotland to go under hammer

It was made for King James VI of Scotland and decorated with his engraved portrait and has been held by the V&A museum in London for more than 50 years.

Now an historically important 17th century watch, a rarity in a time when portable timekeeping was in its infancy, is to go under the hammer at Bonhams, where it is expected to sell for betwen £250,000 and £350,000.

The unique timepiece was created by David Ramsay, who became the first Master of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers, with an engraved portrait of the king by Simon De Passe in the inner lid. A keen enthusiast of horology, the king appointed Ramsay as Royal Clockmaker, bringing him into the inner circle of the royal court.

The watch was later presented by Queen Anne to her Maid-of-Honour, Lady Elizabeth Russell. The watch subsequently passed through successive generations of the family to the present owner where the watch was placed on long-term loan to the British Museum in 1961. In 1974, it was lent to the V&A, where it remained until this year. The pocket watch is one of three known surviving examples commissioned at the same time.

Bonhams said its exceptional rarity and distinguished royal provenance make it a historically significant timepiece.

A historically important and unique David Ramsay watch made for King James VI of Scotland, is to gi under the hammer. | Bonhams

Jonathan Darracott, global head of watches at Bonhams, said: “We are delighted to present this extraordinary David Ramsay pocket watch, a remarkable survivor from the earliest history of horology. Dating to circa 1613, its exceptional craftsmanship, royal provenance and profound historical royal significance, place it among the most compelling early timepieces to come to market. Its case edge incorporates the four emblems associated with the kingdoms of Scotland, England Ireland and France under King James I and VI, setting it apart from the others in the series of three.

“The watch was produced at a time when mechanical timepieces were the preserve of royalty and the wealthiest members of society, a pocket watch was not merely a functional object but a powerful symbol of status, privilege and enlightenment of the very latest mechanical and scientific advancements. With its extraordinary rarity and importance, we expect it to attract connoisseurs, curators and collectors of fine horology and historical landmarks from around the world. It represents a truly unique opportunity to acquire a remarkable remarkable piece of history and one of the most sought-after early watchmaking creations.”

He said that at the time the watch was made, church clocks remained the principal means by which the wider population experienced measured time, while portable watches were objects of considerable rarity, expense and prestige.

With a finely engraved fire-gilt dial, the watch features silvered chapter rings displaying the hours and date, alongside apertures indicating the day, lunar phase and moon date, and planetary weekday, complemented by elegant blue-steel pointers. The case is distinguished by gilt rims and intricately chiselled outer covers depicting scenes from Lucas Chapter X, together with the royal coat of arms of King James I and the royal motto Beati Pacifici - meaning “Blessed are the peacemakers”. The surrounding band is decorated with symbols representing the kingdoms under his rule, while the inner cover has an engraved portrait of the King himself.