A Dutch burr walnut marquetry inlaid longcase quarter striking alarm clock with automaton, Johannes du Chesne, third quarter 18th century

36-cm polychrome painted dial, engraved chapter ring with Roman numerals signed Johannes du Chesne, Amsteldam, pierced hands, sweep seconds and alarm disc, apertures in the center for date, day, month and moonphase, a landscape below with figures playing musical instruments with connection to the going train of the anchor movement with trip repeating Dutch quarter striking on two alternating bells, alarm on a bell, quality burr walnut veneered case, bell top surmounted by a carved fret, waisted glazed door with foliate carved surround, canted trunk, door with foliate marquetry inlay and foliate carved border, basket lenticle, moulded bombed base with similar inlay raised on ball and claw feet

chaptering tarnished, figures and automaton in fairly good condition, center of dial probably repainted but well done, movement in working order and complete but might benefit from a clean, automaton might need some adjusting, case in original but slightly dirty condition, quality carving throughout and unusual shape of case, carved finial of later date, probably at an urn on top together with a pendulum, four weights, two keys, finial, 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.

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Johannes du Chesne is recorded working in Amsterdam in 1760. Lit.;Enrico Morpurgo, Nederlandse Klokken- en Horloge makers vanaf 1300, pp. 26.