A rare Louis XVI mahogany ormolu mounted 'masterpiece' mantel clock, Didelot Sauvigny French, late 18th Century

9.5-cm enamel chapter ring with Arabic numerals, pierced gilt hands and blued sweep seconds, going train movement with skeletonized front plate driven by two spring barrels, pinwheel escapement mounted on the back plate and knife-edge suspended pendulum with pear shaped brass bob, separate spring driven mechanism for the countwheel bell striking mounted below in the two-tiered mahogany case adorned with ormolu mounts, flowers and finials, the base with a plaque inscribed Didelot Sauvigny Fecit and another with an engraved monogram ADB, raised on bun feet mounted on an ebonized base with adjustable feet, dome lacking

chapter ring in original condition, two minute chips at the inner rim and small chips at the fixing points of the screwsholding the dial, chapter ring seems to be refitted to the dialplate, movement made in an individual way able to functuion and in good condition, case in original but slightly dirty condition, the gilding appears to be fine and should clean up nicely, one pillar a little loose but that should be easily fixed, ebonized base with some rubbing to the ebonizing and further a little dirty, dome for the base lacking, together with a winder and a pendulum
"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."