Patek Philippe

• cal. 33 photo-electric quartz movement recharged by a solar panel • off-white matte dial, gilt chapter ring with Roman numerals, pierced decorative hands • four cloisonné enamel panels, one to each corner of the dial depicting various scenes of the carnival, the iconic shaped case with a multi-colored cloisonné enamel dome depicting a masquerade mask, the three cloisonné enamel panels around the main body depicting the operatic scene of the carnival, enamel signed MFM; the whole case supported on three gadrooned feet • case, dial and movement signed

The movement runs at the time of cataloging, the window for the solar panel shows misty, the body enamel in good condition, no chips and cracks. The brass frame shows oxidization which needs a clean. Dial and hands are in good condition, the dome glass has a few black specks. Please note that the movement has not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. 
"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."

With a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives and fitted box.

This present lot is one of the early generation solar domed clocks to feature a Calibre 33 photo-electric quartz movement recharged by a solar panel. Patek Philippe's photo-electric clock was not only among the first civilian uses of solar power, but the first application of this technology in any horological piece. It was also the first freestanding, portable timepiece operated by means other than a traditional mechanical movement. Along with the advent of the electro-mechanical and quartz movements, this solar-powered milestone was one of several significant advances in the third quarter of the 20th century that threatened to render mechanical movements obsolete.

While every single piece is a unique work, Patek Philippe's cloisonné enamel dome clocks were created for the motif of the client's request. The present enamel dome clock was meticulously crafted by Marie-Françoise Martin (MFM. as signed on the side of clock), one of Patek Philippe's most acclaimed enamel artists. The works of Marie-Françoise Martin were incredibly distinctive and unique, mostly denoted by her vibrant colour use. The present lot, whimsically named as the 'Travestis', (where people are dressed in costumes and have parties, for example The Carnival of Venice), sophistically depicted the operatic and joyful scenes in which people engage in the jovial parties. The lively and bright colours of the enamel vividly portrayed a convivial picture, spreading the festive and cheery atmosphere to admirers.