Unsigned, in the style of James Cox

* the timepiece movement with 2 1/4" later white enamel dial, Roman numerals
* vari-color paste-set bezel, in a rectangular case with applied ormolu foliate scroll corners mounted on four recumbent lions tied by foliate swags, the sides further flanked by crowns topped by whirligigs, formerly set with vari-color pastes, the case topped by a balustraded gallery mounted with four columns supporting a cupola centered by a figure of a native woman striking the bell above at will and on the hours and quarter hours, with a vari-color paste-set whirligig below, the figure enclosed by four gilt-metal scroll-form brackets, the cupola topped by a revolving trellis-work pineapple finial, formerly paste-set an with leafage now lacking
* two-train musical automaton and striking movements, the music and automaton released on the hour or at will and playing one of 2 tunes on 9 bells with 9 hammers, the tunes selected by a knurled button mounted on the backplate, all visible through hinged glazed doors, the main automaton scene displayed at the front beneath a glazed panel showing a procession of country folk with a large English country  house in the background, all contained in a rectangular case applied with ormolu mounts, the whole further supported on the backs of standing caparisoned elephants linked together by ribbon-tied foliate swags, further standing on a detachable wood base, circa 1840, fitted with five drawers

Overall of high quality but will require complete revision in order to its restore it to its former magnificence. The photograph in the accompanying book, albeit small, should contain many clues in determining how this piece would have orginally looked. The following issues should be noted: The works: The music, striking and going are complete but in various states of function, timepiece is not running, the music work plays intermittently, the tunes not switching, the striking work going but again intermittently, and will require overhaul. The Case: The bottom section of the case is substantially correct, bar some associated mountings of varying color. Additionally, the right side now with two detached mounts one present and needs to be reapplied, the other missing, back glass panel now detached, and will need to be reattached. The rotating whirligigs mounted on the crowns now completely stripped down and will need reornamentation. The case from the balustrade up shows evidence of alterations and additions to the construction as well as the brackets of the cupola section, where the gilding is a different color. The trelliswork floor above the clock dial has different gilding and chasing. The columns, platform and cupola roof appear to be brass and not ormolu. The three lions are lacking screws between the paws. The figure within the cupola probably depicts the Continent America. There is a hole in the fist, indicating that she might have been holding something, such as an arrow. One screw to her back left shoulder is replaced. The pineapple finial stripped of its pastes and should have been seated upon a palm tree leaf now lacking. The painted scene on the front is in good cosmetic condition and does not appear to have suffered restoration. The dial is either restored or replaced and seems to be soft enamel.
"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."

Accompanied by a copy of Jurgen Abeler, 5000 Jahre Zeit-Messung. A very similar clock is illustrated on p. 61 Abb. 111 of this text, formerly in the Wuppertaler Uhrenmuseum, shown right, in what appears to be in decoratively complete condition.