Lot 101
  • 101

Swiss

Estimate
24,000 - 26,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • A YELLOW GOLD, ENAMEL AND DIAMOND-SET BEETLE-FORM WATCH, MADE FOR THE CHINESE MARKETCIRCA 1870
  • yellow gold and enamel
  • length 49 mm
• nickel cylinder movement, gold cuvette • concealed white enamel dial, Roman numerals • gold beetle-form case, hinged wings with translucent red enamel over geometric patterned engine-turning, highlighted by small rose-cut diamonds, black enamel detail to the head, diamond-set eyes, the reserve of the body realistically chased and engraved

Condition

The movement will run for a short time, however it will require servicing. Dial in good condition. The red enamel to the wings has been restored. Case with some wear and tarnished.
"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

Similar examples of beetle-form watches, called 'montre scarabée', are illustrated in Chapuis, A., La Montre Chinoise, pp. 232-233. Chapuis notes that montre scarabée were not only for the Chinese market. These whimsical creatures found popular appeal among a diverse group of clientele.