A very fine Louis XV ormolu 'Diana' cartel clock, the case by Jean-Joseph de Saint Germain, Jean Baptiste Baillon, Paris, circa 1750

8½-inch enamel dial signed Jn Baptiste Baillon, finely pierced and engraved gilt hands, the five-pillar bell striking movement with numbered star-cut outside count wheel and tic tac escapement, later steel suspension, similarly signed on the backplate and numbered No.3494, the elaborate rococo case stamped ST. GERMAIN, surmounted by a figure of Diana and her dog seated beneath a tree and amidst foliate scrolls, putti, flowers and a bird

Dial in good condition with some minor chips around the winding holes. Movement appears to retain the original wheel work throughout but the suspension has been carefully and sympathetically altered to adjustable steel in the 19th Century, much in need of a clean. Case in good condition and retaining much of the original gilding with some marks and rubbing to the high points. With replaced pendulum and a winder.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Jean-Joseph de Saint Germain (1719-1791), was appointed master founder in 1748. One of the most highly regarded creators of ormolu clock cases, examples of his work are to be found in major collections throughout the world. The 'Diana' cartel clock was one of his most popular models and a 'cartel à Diane' was recorded in an inventory of his workshops in 1747.

Jean Baptiste Baillon was appointed master clockmaker in 1727 and worked at Place Dauphine. He was clockmaker to the Dauphine, Marie Antoinette in 1770 and died in 1772. His movements are often found in cases by Saint Germain.

An almost identical clock signed St Germain and Baillon is in the Louvre Museum, Paris from the collection of Madame Georges Lebey and is illustrated and discussed in Alcouffe, Dion-Tenebaum & Mabille, The Bronze Furniture of the Louvre, 2004, pages 76-77 Another similar unsigned case with movement by Baillon was sold Christies, Paris, 23rd June 2005. A further unsigned example with movement by Louis Jouard is illustrated Tardy, French Clocks the World Over, Part One, page 306.