Attributed to James Cox. A very fine, rare and attractive 18K gold and gem-set keywound quarter repeating pair case verge watch

Although unsigned, the present watch displays style elements very similar to the work of James Cox, most notably the sumptuous case, and can therefore be attributed to his workshop.

Preserved in very good and original overall condition, it is furthermore distinguished by the unusual case decoration, depicting a gem-set crowned elephant on a pedestal.

The elephant, a very popular animal, is a symbol of good fortune and longevity in many cultures. Elephants have a reputation in both Indian and Chinese cultures for attracting wealth and good.

Elephants have been the subject of various cultural depictions in mythology, symbolism and popular culture. Revered also in religion, ever since the stone-age, when elephants were represented by ancient petroglyphs and cave art, they have been depicted in different forms of art. The Asian elephant appears in various religious traditions and mythologies. They are treated positively and are sometimes revered as deities, often symbolizing strength and wisdom.