Unsigned

• with large silvered chapter ring, Roman numerals, a gilt-metal single hand • fitted with an earlier verge movement at one end and a weight at the opposite end, the hand suspended within the tails of a pair of gilt-metal elongated fanciful fish • all mounted upon a quadrangular wood base, the base applied with gilt-metal festoons and raised on four bun feet

Time Museum Inventory No. 1681

The movement is signed Schmidt and was running at time of cataloguing, however as it is a novelty clock should be judged as more of a curiosity than a reliable timekeeper. It functions by means of a lead counterweight which revolves clockwise so that it points at the correct time. The time can be adjusted by means of a key, which re-orients the lead counterweight. The smaller end of the hand is now lacking ornamentation. The Cuban mahogany base could potentially be original. We would date the piece to the early 19th century.
"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."

The Mysterious Circulator Clock was patented by John Schmidt on December 20th, 1808. It was later reproduced by Richard Good for E. Dent in London in 1977.

For examples of these clocks, see Roberts, D., Mystery, Novelty and Fantasy Clocks, Chapter 13, pp. 148-152, figs. 13-1A- 13-7.