An ormolu table clock for the Chinese market, English, circa 1780

3½-inch restored enamel dial with centre seconds, the five pillar two train fusee movement with verge escapement and striking the hours on a bell, the backplate with engraved border, the case with shaped top and bud finial above canted scroll corners, paste-set bezel, the plinth with an automaton paste-set whorl, on splay scroll feet

PROSPECTIVE PURCHASERS SHOULD INSPECT IN PERSON. Dial restored and could be much improved, tip to minute hand missing. Movement will just run but is very dirty and in need of cleaning, service and overhaul, numerous spare holes suggesting that this was originally quarter striking, bell probably replaced. Spring barrel movement to the base powering the whorl and un-connected to the clock movement is much in need of a clean but would just run at cataloguing, start/stop pull to left side lacking knob. The case with much original gilding though some rubbing and discolouration particularly to the top, upper section not fixed. With a winder.
"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."

This form of case is known as the 'scroll angle' design and was most used by Henry Borrell and John Mottram although other unsigned and Chinese examples are known. A clock by Borrell of very similar design and with the same bird mounts as this example is in the Palace Museum, Beijing and is illustrated and discussed along with others in Ian White, English Clocks for the Eastern Markets, pg. 230 Fig.8.19. 

From the mid-eighteenth century onwards, the West increasingly focused their attention on objects that could be exported to help balance an increasing trade gap between East and West.  This was further fuelled by the massive demand in the West for exotic Asian wares such as textiles, porcelain, lacquer and of course tea.