Lot 1
  • 1

MARCUS PURMANN

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
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Description

  • A GILT BRASS HORIZONTAL STRING-GNOMON DIAL 1594
  • length 60mm., height 15mm., width 45mm.
small gilt brass box with inscriptions on all faces:
• face (1a) the opposite surface with rotating volvelle and apertures determining lunar cycle, bordered by scrollwork which is repeated on the band sides of the case
• face (1b) contains at one end maker's signature and date *M*P* 1594, the cardinal directions named along the inner four borders (Septenrio, Orient, Meridies, Occident), centered by a volvelle for converting astronomical hours (counted from mid-day) to Italian hours (counted from sunset), as indicated by the inscription Habetvr hora italica si 24 ponas svper horam occasvs (Italian hours can be had if 24 is placed above time of sunset)
• face (11a) diagram for a horizontal dial with half-hour divided hour lines surrounding an inset compass
• plummet-holder shaped and engraved as two monstrous fish at hinge-end of inner plates, also serving as support for upper end of the string-gnomon now lacking, inclines to adjust for latitudes over a scale of 40-54 degrees
• face (11b) engraved with tabula latitudinis regionim (table of the latitudes of places) listing European cities, including Antuerpia (Antwerp), Colonia (Cologne), Cracova (Krakow), Florentia (Florence), Genua (Genoa), Londinum (London), Monachum (Munich), Massilia (Marseilles), Parisia (Paris), Praga (Prague), Roma (Rome), Toletum (Toledo), Vienna, and Venetia (Venice)
• the case secured by an overhanging piece and corresponding turning key at the opening edge of both hinged components; when the key is in a horizontal position the case can be opened; when it is in a vertical position the case is secured

Condition

The string-gnomon is missing, as noted in the catalogue. There is loss to the gilding on the outside of the case and loss to the silvering on the horizontal dial with inset compass.
"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

For a similar example, see Sotheby's Olympia, Masterpieces from the Time Museum, Part Three, Scientific Instruments, October 30th, 2002, lot 10.