14K Gold Quarter Repeater Pocket Watch. Invicta for the Russian Market. Switzerland, circa 1900

An exquisite antique gold pocket watch with a quarter repeater and chain, housed in its original leather case, crafted by the Swiss watchmaking house Invicta, founded in 1837. This model, dated circa 1900, was specifically created for the Russian market, as evidenced by the calendar in Russian, the use of the 56th assay mark, and the original case bearing the logo of the Moscow retailer M.P. Kalashnikov Trading House.The watch case and gold chain are made of 56th assay gold (a Russian metric standard equivalent to 14K gold). The intricate movement features a quarter repeater, chronograph, a Cyrillic calendar in Russian (displaying the date, day of the week, and month), and a moon phase complication. This unique calendar feature confirms that the watch was specifically designed for the Russian market.The dial, executed in a classic style, is adorned with Roman numerals and elegant decorative elements, reflecting the highest level of Swiss watchmaking. The back cover of the watch is engraved with medals awarded at international exhibitions in 1895 and 1896, underscoring the brand`s prestige and impeccable quality.Historical Reference on the Manufacturer:Founded in 1837 in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Invicta embodies the flawless craftsmanship of Swiss watchmaking.Diameter: 59.6 mmWeight of the watch: 132 gWeight of the chain: 24 gCondition: The watch is in working order, and the movement has been serviced.Historical Background:

The name Invicta, derived from the Latin word for unconquered, symbolizes the pursuit of excellence in watchmaking. Since its inception, the company has specialized in premium timepieces, emphasizing precision and durability. By the late 19th century, Invicta had gained international recognition for its innovations and participation in world fairs, such as those in Paris (1896) and Bordeaux (1895).Invicta watches were produced in limited series for an elite clientele, including members of royal families and aristocrats. By the early 20th century, the brand had become one of the leaders in the Swiss watch industry, thanks to its sophisticated complications, such as repeaters, chronographs, and calendars.The company placed special emphasis on exports to the Russian Empire, which explains the presence of Russian assay marks and Cyrillic calendars on certain models, including this one. Today, Invicta timepieces from the late 19th and early 20th centuries remain symbols of impeccable quality and prized collectibles.

M.P. Kalashnikov Trading HouseEstablished in Moscow in 1832, the company was renamed M.P. Kalashnikov & Son in 1882, managed by Mikhail Petrovich and Pyotr Mikhailovich Kalashnikov. The store was originally located on Ilyinka Street and later moved to the Upper Trading Rows (now GUM). The company sold Swiss watches and produced wall clocks under its own brand, using both Russian and Swiss movements. Its operations ceased in 1917, and the business was subsequently incorporated into the state trust Gostrest Tochmekh.