- 64
A Swiss silver open-face watch commemorating Benjamin Franklin, c. 1790
Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- diameter 2 1/8 in. (5.4cm)
the engine-turned dial mounted with an enamel head and shoulders portrait of Franklin surrounded by lightning, with three subsidiary white enamel dials for time, day, and date, the back of the watch with a bas-relief of Franklin's house below lightning, the verge movement with polished steel bridge surmounted by a gilt metal cupid with hound, with key
Provenance
A. Douiol Collection, Paris, sold
Davis & Harvey, Philadelphia, February 19-20, 1907 (cat. no. 959), lot 638
Condition
some surface wear, the hour hand possibly replaced, otherwise good condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The scene on the back of the watch shows the home of Benjamin West as depicted in a print by Lebreten. It was on the roof of West's house that Franklin installed his first lightening rod.