Digital watches for athletes with fitness tracking and water resistance features -Battle of Jena Pocket Watch
Qty:
French
Circa 1806
This exquisite 1806 pocket watch is a remarkable keepsake commemorating the French victory at the Battle of Jena, one of the most pivotal battles of the 19th century. This triumph solidified Napoleon's position as the most powerful man in the world. Powered by a precision rooster movement with key winding, the watch features an enameled dial adorned with beautifully painted Arabic numerals. The chased silver case is masterfully crafted, with an intricately worked perimeter that showcases a recessed frieze. The centerpiece of the watch is the striking central medallion on the back, which displays the profile of Emperor Napoleon I, set against a backdrop of military trophies—an enduring symbol of the battle that cemented his French Empire.
The pierced silver back of the watch is inscribed with the words "L'ARMEE FRANÇAISE A IENA EN 1806 - A. VENGE ROSBACH DE 1757," a poignant reminder of Napoleon's triumph. The inscription references the Battle of Rossbach, fought on November 5, 1757, where Frederick II's Prussian forces defeated the French and their Imperial allies. The French avenged this defeat nearly fifty years later at the Battle of Jena (or Iena) resulting in a decisive victory for Napoleon, effectively crushing the Prussian military, which was considered one of the most formidable forces in Europe at the time.
This battle led to the rapid collapse of the Prussian kingdom, with French forces occupying Berlin shortly afterward. Napoleon's success at Jena solidified his dominance in Central Europe and is often cited as a prime example of his military genius. By employing his innovative corps system, Napoleon was able to execute rapid movements and complex maneuvers on the battlefield, overwhelming the more rigid and outdated tactics of the Prussian army. This victory not only demonstrated the might and grandeur of the French Empire under Napoleon's rule but also sent a clear message to other European powers of his unassailable strength.
2 1/8“ in diameter