The Danish name Jürgensen is prominent in the history of horology, revered for craftsmanship, precision and innovation. A student of Breguet, Houriet and Arnold, Urban Jürgensen is considered one of the greatest watchmakers of the 19th century. Urban Jürgensen established himself in Switzerland catering to monarchs, aristocrats and the greats of Europe. After his passing in 1830, his sons, Louis Urban and Jules, took over his business, with Jules remaining in Switzerland. Jules Jürgensen was an extremely gifted watchmaker creating precision chronometers and complicated timepieces under his own brand.

Today, Jules Jürgensen pocket watches remain highly sought after for their extraordinary craftsmanship. The present hunter case watch combines two complications rarely seen in combination in 21st century horology - a minute repeater and split-seconds chronograph. The watch is preserved in excellent overall condition with an exquisite and flawless white enamel dial and Roman numerals. The repeating mechanism is activated through a slide in the band, producing a rich tone. The watch features Jürgensen’s innovative and patented bow setting system, permitting the hands to be set with the crown when the bow is bent towards the dial. The four body “demi-bassine et fillet” case demonstrates Jürgensen’s design aesthetic. The front case interior is dedicated to the “Hon. Harry B. Hawes by St. Louis Police Department, July 1 1900”. Harry B. Hawes was an American lawyer, conservationist, and Democratic member of the U. S. House and Senate from Missouri. He is best known for the Hare-Hawes-Cutting Act, a law granting independence to the Philippines.