Lot 75
  • 75

Bichler & Hartmann

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 CHF
bidding is closed

Description

  • A YELLOW GOLD, ENAMEL AND DIAMOND SET SILK LINED COIN PURSE FITTED WITH A CONCEALED WATCH CIRCA 1850
  • LENGTH 79 MM
• gilt cylinder movement • concealed white enamel dial, Roman numerals, gold surround with technical details of the movement • hinged spring-loaded lid, central oval medallion decorated with dark blue translucent enamel background and rose cut diamond-set inscription 'souvenir', the box entirely engraved with foliate motifs on both sides, the cover decorated with translucent blue and white enamel arabesque

Condition

Movement is complete and will most probably run, needs overhaul and adjustments. The white enamel with a hairline crack. Case with one missing part on the foliate motifs, an enamel part restored on the cover lid. A good example of fantasy watches from the period.
"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."

Catalogue Note

Bichler, A.J. & Hartmann were watchmakers in Geneva, Place des Bergues 3, specialized in the production of fantasy watches in 1857. 

Dictionnaire des Horlogers Genevois, La 'fabrique' et les Arts annexes du XVIe siècle à nos jours, Geneva, 1999, p.104.