A 17^th century watch in the form of a cross, given as a confirmation present, has been discovered in a sock drawer by Charterhouse Auctioneers in Sherborne and valued at £20,000.

“Usually when we are working in client properties we just find socks in sock drawers so I was shocked to come across a little box with this amazing watch.” Commented Richard Bromell. “Of museum quality it is phenomenal find which if we had not looked carefully it could have inadvertently been thrown away after the owner passed away.”

The watch was clearly treasured and loved, having no doubt been hidden away in the drawer of a remote Dorset cottage for safety.

Dating to the mid-17^th century the cruciform watch, made from brass in a rock crystal case and decorated with enamel, measures just 8 cm high. The dial has a chapter ring with Roman numerals which is centred by the birth of Jesus above a vignette of Adam and Eve. The back plate, engraved scrolling foliage, is signed Drovino A Potiers.

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