Lot 162
  • 162

Cartier

Estimate
280,000 - 350,000 CHF
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • AN EXCEPTIONAL AND RARE YELLOW GOLD, PLATINUM, ROCK CRYSTAL, ONYX, MOTHER OF PEARL AND DIAMOND MYSTERY CLOCK 1928 PENDULE MYSTERIEUSE MODEL A
  • height 140 mm, width 83 mm
 • gilt lever movement • white mother of pearl chapter ring with Roman numerals, surrounded by a rose-cut diamond-set bezel, platinum hands set with rose-cut diamonds • the rock crystal outlined with gold and decorated to the interior with a rectangular mother of pearl border • rock crystal mounted on a quadrangular onyx base, gold beadwork trim • Cartier Certificate of Authenticity with presentation case

Condition

Movement running while cataloguing, an overhaul is recommended for it to be fully operational. The crystal case with just a small blemish on the top part of the reverse side, there is hairline fracture to right hand side and some discolouration within the imperfection. This could possibly be restored by a professional so that it is less visible. Mother of pearl decoration to the dial which is very unusal for that type of Model. This present example is in an overall good condition.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The Cartier "Pendule Mystérieuses" or "Mystery Clock" exudes a mystic elegance that has captured the imagination of Cartier collectors for decades. Inspired by the work of the 1850s French magician and clockmaker, Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin, Maurice Couet devised the first Mystery Clock in 1913 which was named "Pendules Mysterieuses Model A." This name resonates with automotive pioneer Henry Ford's "Model T" car of the same period and, fittingly, the first Model A was sold at Cartier New York to American financial magnate, J.P. Morgan Jr. Thus, the Cartier Mystery Clock demands an inquisitive mind-set, determined to decode its complexity, while appreciating its perplexing beauty. The current example, Model A, features rotating rock crystal discs to indicate the hours and minutes. This mechanism is invisibly powered by gears hidden in the frame, while the onyx base contains the clock's movement.

An almost identical example with its specific mother of pearl dial stamped 'France' sold at Christies, New York, April 12, 2006. For a similar example please refer to Barracca, J., Negretti, G., and Nencini. F., Le Temps de Cartier, p.99.