A very fine and rare Louis XV ormolu and patinated bronze cartel clock by Jacques Caffieri and Julien Le Roy, Paris, circa 1750

7-inch enamel dial signed Julien Le Roy, finely engraved fleur-de-lys hands, the bell striking movement with numbered outside count wheel, silk suspension and rare Chevalier de Bethune escapement, signed on the backplate Julien Le Roy A Paris, the finely cast and chased rococo case surmounted  by a figure of Minerva amidst billowing clouds and above a winged cherub, leaves and scrolls, signed in a cartouche Caffieri Fecit

Dial in generally very fine condition with a few minor chips around both winding holes. Movement is complete and looks as though it would run but may benefit from a clean, appears to retain the original wheel trains throughout. Case in good condition throughout. with pendulum, winder and one old mainspring.
"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."

Jacques Caffieri (1678-1755) was a sculptor in bronze whose father had entered service as a decorative sculptor for Louis XIV in 1660.  Jacques became maitre fondeur-ciseleur in 1714 and in 1736 was attached to the Batiments du Roi as fondeur-ciseleur. At this time, the arts of patinating and gilding bronze were kept separate but in 1740 his wife purchased a Royal privilege allowing Cafieri to produce patinated and gilt bronze in the same workshop.

Julian Le Roy (1686-1759), an important clockmaker, became maitre in 1713 and in 1739 was made Horloger du Roi at the Louvre.  His name has been associated with many of the great bronziers of the 18th Century including St Germain, Osmond and Caffieri.

This is example is exceptionally rare in being a combination of ormolu and patinated bronze and it is interesting that Caffieri was permitted to produce both products.  The Chevalier de Bethune escapement of this clock was often used by Le Roy.