L11054

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Lot 273
  • 273

Falize

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 GBP
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Description

  • A SILVER OPEN-FACED KEYLESS WATCH WITH ALARMCIRCA 1885 'LA CIGALE DES FELIBRES'
  • silver
  • diameter 48 mm
• nickel lever two train movement, alarm mechanism with metal sheets within the cuvette, pierced cuvette with blued steel to the interior • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, central alarm hand • silver case with repoussé cicada to the reverse, pierced band with floral motif, rotating bezel with floral motifs for adjusting the alarm • case stamped AB

Literature

Purcell, K., Falize, A dynasty of jewelers, p.272-273.

Condition

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, the alarm does operate however the hand to set the alarm is not working correctly and will require servicing. The enamel dial with two hairline cracks originating from the centre. The case with scuffs throughout, wear to the edge of the cicada plaque to the centre, small indentations to the band.
"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

Falize began his career as one of the most tasteful jewellers in 1840. The company spanned over three generations and had such prestigious clients as the Imperial Russian family, the Romanian royal family and Sarah Bernhardt.

Bapst et Falize registered the patent for the 'clicking' alarm system on the 5 December 1885. The sound is made by the interaction of metal sheets which produces the audible sound. The 'Félibres' were a group of 19th century poets who wrote in Provencal. The watch was distributed by the retailer Langlois.