Important Watches

Audemars Piguet

Repetition Minutes “John Schaeffer”, Reference 25760BA | A yellow gold minute repeating wristwatch, Circa 1995

Auction Closed

October 21, 07:40 AM GMT

Estimate

200,000 - 400,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Audemars Piguet

Repetition Minutes “John Schaeffer”, Reference 25760BA

A yellow gold minute repeating wristwatch, Circa 1995

Dial: white

Calibre: cal. 2866 mechanical, 32 jewels

Movement number: 412’794

Case: 18k yellow gold, sapphire crystal display back secured by 4 screws

Case number: D48848 and 2

Closure: black Audemars Piguet alligator strap and 18k yellow gold buckle

Size: 33.5 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: none

Audemars Piguet’s John Schaeffer Repetition Minutes might be one of the brand’s most understated haute horology offerings, and though it is often misunderstood, it is the ultimate wolf in sheep's clothing piece.

Several online sources can’t seem to decide whether the original John Shaeffer watch was made in 1907 or much later during the inter-war years. Technically both are true, as the minute repeating movement of the watch was created in 1907, but not cased in a wristwatch until the 1920s. However, it can be argued that the distinctive original design of the John Schaeffer wristwatch, named after the eponymous chemical tycoon from New Jersey, was why the line was chosen for resurrection during the 1990s by Audemars Piguet at all, making the 1920s the rightful birth year of this iconic model.

The original watch featured the same diminutive dimensions as can be found on the present reference 25760BA, making the watch extremely understated on the wrist. However, the present watch also shares another feature with the original John Schaeffer: a crisp and loud minute repeating movement. This alone elevates the watch into the realms of haute horology, and when combined with highly eccentric design elements such as the cushion case, cushion-shaped sub-dial and gorgeous applied Breguet numerals, results in a watch that is extremely relevant to collectors’ tastes today.

愛彼 John Schaeffer Repetition Minutes 型號25760BA

黃金三問腕錶，約1995年製

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"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."