Le Roy Et Fils the Star of India Enamel Diamond-Set Pocket Watch

Inventory Number: PW1903001

Made in England circa 1900, dial signed LeRoy Et Fils, London.

Engraved gold case decorated polychrome enamel depicting Tudor Roses and lotuses connected by chains interspersed with palm leaves, center with diamond-set 5-pointed star and motto “HEAVENS LIGHT OUR GUIDE". Queen Victoria founded the Most Exalted Order of the Star of India as an order of chivalry in 1861. This emblem of the star of India and the motto were from this order.

Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds, perpetual calendar with moon-phase indicator, minute repeater, barometer and thermometer (Fahrenheit). 

Historical Background 

Le Roy et fils was a French watchmaker. The company was founded in 1785 by Basile Charles le Roy. The company became successful and survived the turmoil of the French Revolution. It became the clockmaker to Napoleon I and also was purveyor to his sister Princess Pauline. After the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy, it was a warrant holder for the Duke of Bourbon.

The shop in London was at 57 New Bond Street. It was a British Royal Warrant holder under Queen Victoria, and was the only foreign clockmaker that had the British royal warrant.

Queen Victoria founded the Most Exalted Order of the Star of India as an order of chivalry in 1861. The Order included members of three classes:

Knight Grand Commander, Knight Commander, and Companion.

The motto of the order was "Heaven's light our guide". The "Star of India", the emblem of the order, also appeared on the flag of the Viceroy of India.

Several years after the consolidation of Great Britain's power as the governing authority in India the queen founded the order to honor Indian Princes and dignitaries, as well as British officers and administrators serving in India with a knighthood. The collar was a part of the regalia which was only worn by Knights Grand Commanders. It was a gold chain adorned