Lot Essay
The 'Chinese' duplex escapement is an unusual one and derives its name from being rarely seen save in Swiss 19th century watches made for the Chinese market in the Fleurier district. It was regarded as superior by such makers as Japy and Lepine not for its timekeeping quality but because it gave a simple means of showing seconds from a balance vibrating quarter seconds. See Charles Allix (op. cit.) pp.209-210. The bats' wings on the balance are a product of Chinese superstition - reputedly they serve to ward off devils.