Breguet

• gilt full plate duplex movement signed Breguet No. 870, cylinder pillars, double wheel duplex escapement, three-arm plain balance with parachute, a toc quarter repeating mechanism, two hammers striking on the edge of the case by depressing the pendant, gilt brass cuvette signed and numbered • white enamel dial, Breguet numerals and blued steel hands, subsidiary seconds • gold case by Tavernier, the same one used for perpétuelles or first garde temps, milled band, back engine-turned with engraved initials 'HM' in a cartouche

The Breguet Archives confirm that this watch was sold to Monsieur Mulhens on 11 Messidor an 10 (July 1st, 1802) for the sum of 1800 Francs. 

Movement not running, needs adjustment and servicing, the repeating mechanism working but needs overhaul. Enamel dial with secret signature 'Breguet No. 870' in very good condition. Case in very good condition. The inside case back with No. 4296 and 870. On the whole, this watch is very well preserved and is a good example of Abraham Louis Breguet's watches from a technical and aesthetic point of view.
"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."

An almost identical model, No. 869, was sold by Antiquorum in the thematic auction, The Art of Breguet, Geneva, 1991, lot 18, described and illustrated also in G. Daniels, The Art of Breguet, p. 185, fig. 149 a-c.