Lot 55
  • 55

Cartier/European Watch & Clock Co., Inc.

Estimate
100,000 - 150,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • A FINE AND RARE LAPIS LAZULI, NEPHRITE, DIAMOND, RUBY AND GOLD EIGHT DAY DESK TIMEPIECECIRCA 1930
  • height 12 cm, width 10.5 cm, depth 6.4 cm
• circular nickel lever movement, 17 jewels, gilt dust cover • nephrite dial, applied diamond-set Roman numerals, inner square ruby-set accents, diamond-set arrow hands, each corner with a fluted rectangular gold bracket accent • thick rectangular case with fluted nephrite accents to the corners, checkered lapis lazuli enhancements to the raised top, bottom and sides, black enamel base with nephrite angled braces to the front and back, hidden key compartment in base, back featuring two key holes for setting and winding, each with gold and blue enamel rims, four fluted rectangular gold bracket accents to the corners to match the front • base signed Cartier and hand-stamped with Cartier numbers, outside of dust cover signed European Watch and Clock Co France and hand-stamped with Cartier numbers, outer rim of movement hand-stamped with Cartier numbers, movement signed twice European Watch and Clock Co. Inc. France.   

Provenance

Sotheby's, New York, Important Watches, June 13th, 2007, lot 47

Condition

Overall, in excellent condition and a beautiful clock with substantial presence. The movement is running, however it may require service soon. Outer rim of the movement is hand stamped 2852 and 1132. The inside of the dust lid is stamped 2852 and 1132. The case is in beautiful condition with almost no wear throughout. There are two scratches to the outside of the dust lid of the movement. The dial is nice and clean. The base of the clock is numbered 2852 and 'Made in France'. Further accompanied by a recent purpose-built fitted acrylic frame for protection of the dial.
"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

Accompanied by Cartier red leather fitted presentation box and original key.

The present lot contrasts nicely to Cartier's ethereal designs in rock crystal and enamel produced in the 1910s and 1920s, and beautifully illustrates the aesthetic timeline into the 1930s. In many ways, the handsome and simple design provides an almost masculine counterpoint to those earlier pieces.The substantial and imposing case, composed of lapis lazuli with nephrite accents, bears a striking resemblance to the design of the celebrated and record-breaking F.D.R. Victory Clock, sold by Sotheby's New York, December 4th, 2007.