A rare gilt-bronze and ebony automaton table clock, Augsburg, circa 1630

in the form of a rampant lion supporting a sheild inset with the hour dial, the eyes oscillating with the escapement, the mouth opening and closing with the strike, the octagonal baseplate inset with a quarters indicating and setting dial, the movement with steel top plate and square pillars, fusee to the going train with verge and balance wheel escapement, standing barrel to the strike train, the bell and count wheel mounted on the brass bottom plate, the finely moulded ebony base inset with glazed panels, on bun feet

The Margraves and Grand Dukes of Baden, Neues Schloss in Baden-Baden

In generally good condition throughout. Some rubbing to high points on the original gilding, tail repaired, silvered dials are rubbed and dirty. Movement in good condition and looks as though it would run. Case has old repairs, bun feet replaced. No winder.
"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."

This magnificent clock was kept by the Grand Ducal Family of Baden in the Neues Schloss Baden-Baden which was built in 1370. After the sale of the castle in 1995 the present clock remained in the posession of the Grand Ducal family. 

A similar clock was sold Christie's, Paris, The Collection of Yves Saint Laurent, 23rd February 2009, Lot 722.

Similar clocks are illustrated in Maurice, Klaus, Die Deutsche Räderuhr, Vol. 2, images 318-323.