George Graham No.722: A very rare grande sonnerie table clock movement and dial in a replica ebony case

6½-inch rectangular latched dial with double-screwed silver foliate spandrels, matted centre, date aperture with pinhole adjustment, subsidiary strike/not strike and regulation dials to the upper corners flanking the signature Geo: Graham, London, the three train fusee and chain movement with eight knopped latched pillars, formerly with silent escapement (now half-deadbeat), striking the hours and quarters on two bells with trip repeat operated from either side, the base of the plain backplate punch numbered 722, the replica case with gilt-brass carrying handle and escutcheons, pierced wood foliate frets to the front and rear doors

Dial rings and spandrels are tarnished and dial plate is rather dirty, old scratch to matting below XII. Movement has conversion to half-deadbeat escapement but otherwise appears to have retained the original wheelwork throughout, much in need of a clean and service. 20th Century replica case in good condition. With pendulum, winder and two case keys.
"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."

Grande sonnerie clocks by George Graham are extremely rare and to date only three have been recorded. No.488, which appears to be Tomion old stock completed by Graham, No.721, a walnut example and this clock in a 20th Century ebony veneered replica case. The walnut clock is illustrated Dawson, Drover, Parkes Early English Clocks plate 720 and also Antiquarian Horology June 1965 pages 323 and 340. The article describes the clock as having Graham's silent escapement and this present clock would almost certainly have had the same escapement originally and the few spare holes on the front and back plates in the area of the escapement would appear to confirm this view.