Lot 109
  • 109

Seeland

Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 CHF
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Description

  • A RARE GOLD, ENAMEL, RUBY AND DIAMOND-SET WATCH WITH NOBLE PORTRAIT SIGNED GRAFF, MADE FOR THE INDIAN MARKET CIRCA 1890 NO. 370026
  • diameter 51 mm
• gilt three quarter plate lever movement, partly in chaton screws, cut bi-metallic balance, swan neck micrometer regulator • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, outer track for minute indication, subsidiary seconds • gold case, chiselled to the edge on both sides with foliage decoration, the front panel decorated with painted enamel panel of a Maharajah inlaid with diamond and rubies showing his necklace, the reverse with a black and blue champlevé enamel monogram • signed and numbered on the movement

Condition

Movement running while cataloguing, functions appear to be fully operational, a service is also recommended in the future in order to be well preserved. Dial with few minimal signs of wear, in a very well preserved condition. The case is in a very good condition, slightly scuffed to the surface. Overall this is a rare example from the period in a well preserved condition.
"This lot is offered for sale subject to Sotheby's Conditions of Business, which are available on request and printed in Sotheby's sale catalogues. The independent reports contained in this document are provided for prospective bidders' information only and without warranty by Sotheby's or the Seller."

Catalogue Note

John Graf (Graff), 1836-1906, is considered to be the foremost Swiss portraitist in enamel of the later half of the 19th century. His clients were among the most important families in Europe. His skills being highly recognized, he was also commissioned to execute portraits on watch cases destined for the Indian market such as the present one.

This present example represents the portrait of His Highness Sawai Mahendra Sir Pratahsing Bahadeer, K.C. J. E., Savanad- i -Rajaha - i - Bundelkhand, Maharajah of Orchha, Tikamgarh, Bundelkhand.