Hebdomas, 14K gold and enamel, pearl-set pocket watch, 39mm, for Chinese market, visible balance, 8 days going, keyless, unusual large mainspring barrel, circa 1900.

HEBDOMAS, one of the greatest and oldest Swiss watch brands, started its activities in 1888 in La Chaux-de-Fonds (Switzerland), the birth place of many famous Swiss brands. This small village near French border is known as the cradle of traditional watch making, thanks to the rich heritage and craftsmanship of the Swiss watch-makers. The work of these watch-makers has been re-discovered by a large public and connoisseurs, who appreciates the good craftsmanship and models that time has preserved.

Since 1888, all Hebdomas watches have been entirely manufactured by hand, piece by piece. Hebdomas high standard of quality is rooted in the experience of its highly skilled watch-makers, and also in the remembrance of olden customs linked to the cycle of seven, which is the key number that made the brand famous throughout the world. The name Hebdomas recalls the festivities of Ebdomee, held in Sparta, Croton and Mileto, which celebrated the birth of Apollo on the seventh day of the month. In ancient Lesbos, sung by poets, such festivities were dedicated to Dionisio, holding many superstitious rituals and beliefs which were linked to the seventh day of the month.

The HEBDOMAS 8 day watch was first made at the turn of the century and has continued steadily its production, with minor variation, ever since. The watch has a distinctive style with a small dial, visible balance wheel and a decorated balance cock. The outstanding feature is the unusual large mainspring barrel which occupies the rear of the movement.