Antique Victorian Photo Locket, 14K Gold Filled Half Hunter Keepsake Pendant

A wonderfully unusual Victorian photo locket, thoughtfully created from a beautifully engraved antique American 14K gold-filled lady's half-hunter pocket watch case. This ingenious conversion allows it to display a treasured photograph while also providing a discreet compartment for a small personal keepsake.

I was particularly drawn to this high-quality case for its distinctive porthole-style window, framed by intricate engraved decoration. Rather than allowing such an interesting antique to disappear into another watch restoration, I felt it was perfectly suited to becoming a locket, and have carefully transformed it into a unique piece of jewellery with a new purpose.

The front features a beautifully chased and engraved floral border surrounding the porthole-style glass window, while the reverse is equally lovely, with an elegant floral spray against a finely engine-turned ground. The original hinged cover and winding bow have been retained, preserving the distinctive character of the half-hunter case.

The hinged cover opens to reveal the photograph beneath the original glass. I have designed and fabricated a bespoke adjustable retaining ring which holds the photograph securely in position while allowing it to be easily removed and replaced with your own image if desired. A photograph approximately 3 cm in diameter can be trimmed to fit, with its edges held neatly behind the 2.2 cm diameter glazed aperture.

Behind the photograph is a deep compartment lined in lavender silk, providing a special space for a keepsake or sentimental memento. A folded note, a small token or another treasured reminder could be kept here, making this a particularly personal piece of jewellery.

An interesting piece of American watchmaking history, the original case bears the distinctive crown trademark used by H. Muhrs Sons of Philadelphia, together with the word 'Warranted' and serial number 507110. H. Muhrs Sons was a Victorian American watch-case manufacturer with a relatively short history, operating from the early 1880s until 1898. 

This is a one-of-a-kind conversion, combining the craftsmanship of a Victorian watch case with my own bespoke adaptation. Both practical and sentimental, it offers a beautiful way to display a favourite photograph while keeping a little private memento close.

DETAILS~
PERIOD: Victorian, late 19th century
ORIGIN: American case, attributed to H. Muhrs Sons, Philadelphia
METAL: 14K gold-filled (not solid gold)
DESIGN: Half-hunter case with hinged cover and porthole-style glazed aperture
GLAZED APERTURE: 2.2 cm diameter
HEIGHT: 5.2 cm (2 inches)
WIDTH: 3.6 cm (1½ inches)
DEPTH: 10.5 mm
WEIGHT: 16.2 grams
CONDITION: In very good antique condition. The substantial gold overlay shows no visible wear, and the engraving remains beautifully crisp. The opening mechanism is in perfect working order, and the cover closes and locks securely. There is a slight fingertip depression on the back, consistent with generations of opening and closing the original watch case — a charming trace of its former life.

Please note that this is an antique pocket watch case that has been converted into a photo locket and keepsake pendant. The original watch movement is no longer present. The gentleman's photograph shown in the listing is included and can be removed and replaced with your own photograph, allowing you to personalise this unique piece. Please note: The chain is not included.

A distinctive piece of antique history, sympathetically given a new life to hold treasured personal memories.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* Free Worldwide Shipping
We are pleased to offer complimentary worldwide shipping on all purchases. For our US and EU customers, all applicable tariffs and import charges are included in the purchase price, so no additional duties or fees will be payable on delivery.
* Returns Policy
If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may return your item for a refund. Please contact us within 3 days of receiving your order and return the item within 7 days.
* Gemstone Testing & Measurements
All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. Please note that all measurements and stated carat weights are approximate.
* Photography & Scale
Our photographs are taken in extreme close-up to show every fine detail. As a result, minor imperfections may appear more pronounced in images than they do to the naked eye. Close-up photography can also make pieces appear larger on screen, so we recommend referring carefully to the written description for precise dimensions.
* Gifting
Purchasing as a gift? Your jewellery will arrive beautifully gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note that unless otherwise stated, any antique boxes shown in photographs are for display purposes only and are not included in the sale.