THE STORY HOUR Ilbery

• Chinese caliber movement, duplex escapement, monometallic balance with blued steel weights, gilt plates engraved overall with foliate motif • white enamel dial, radial Roman numerals, subsidiary seconds dial • the case back with a finely painted medallion depicting a seated mother flanked by her two children in a classical garden, both bezels with engraved scrolls in red and blue enamel, gilt metal cuvette engraved with central patera and wavy lip border• movement signed and numbered cuvette numbered. 

Movement running at time of cataloging, however not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Case in very good condition, enamel scene with extremely light surface scratches, painting in exceptional condition. Dial with light hairline. Movement in very good condition with patina.
"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."

Through the late 1700s and into the 1800s, Geneva saw a congruence of extraordinary talents in goldwork, mechanical objects, and enameling, all three of which are exhibited in the present lot. The superbly executed enamel painting to the back of the case is enhanced by a vibrant palette centering on contrasting colors of red, yellow, and blue of the central figures. Within the finely formed gold bassine case lies the engraved Chinese caliber movement, a staple of Chinese market watches, adorned with scrolls and flowerheads. While the striking scene of a woman and children is unsigned, the quality of the painting alludes to those of some of the best enamellists in the Geneva Fabrique working on the export market during this period.