ECOLE NATIONALE D’HORLOGERIE DE BESANCON « PIECE ECOLE » An exceptionally rare and highly collectible, superb condition, probably unique, large, keyless, openface, niello sterling silver 800, quarter repeating pocket watch with white enamel dial, blued steel hands, constant second, radial Roman numerals, outer minute track. Fitted with a keyless mechanical movement, gilt finish, partially jeweled, 20 jewels, straight line lever escapement, “ancre à moustaches” counterpoised fork, cut-bimetallic balance with gold poising screws, self-compensating Breguet hairspring, polished steel index regulator, wolf’s tooth winding, blued steel screws, hinged caseback, hinged cuvette engraved “J. Vapillon, Elève de l’Ecole Nationale d’Horlogerie”, mineral glass, repeating with two hammers on two gongs activated by a slide in the band. Dial signed, cuvette signed and engraved. Diam. 51.50 mm. Thickness 16.80 mm. A school piece, also called “Pièce Ecole” is a watch made by a watchmaking student as the ultimate demonstration of their apprenticeship. It is unique, handcrafted, of exceptional quality, and often represents the beginnings of a great watchmaker — making it a highly sought-after and valued item among collectors. The inside cuvette and back are stamped with the french hallmark "crab" standing for sterling silver 800 and also stamped "ARGENTFIN".