A fine and rare Louis XVI ormolu and white marble mantel clock, Buzot, Paris, circa 1775

3¾-inch enamel dial signed Buzot A Paris, similarly signed movement with silk suspension and numbered star-cut outside count wheel striking on a bell, the drum mounted within a pillar flanked by Minerva inspiring a youth, the marble plinth inset with a plaque depicting Louis XVI dictating Laws to France, the ends with pierced mounts of fleur de lys, and cornucopias amid foliate scrolls

Burnay Collection

Dial has damage to the enamel around the regulation arbor above XII and other minor edge chips, good original hands. Movement is complete and appears to retain the original wheelwork throughout, some minor surface rusting to steel work, otherwise generally good and looks as though it would run but would benefit from a clean. Case has left index finger missing from Minerva, shield detached, mounts to column and frieze loose, retains much of the original gilding but rather dirty and with some verdigris, old crack to base of column, minor edge chips to marble base, figures rather loose. With pendulum, winder and regulation key.
"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."

The case of this clock is very similar to a 'cercle tournants' clock in the Wallace Collection. The Wallace clock has a figure of Louis XVI dressed as a Roman warrior being advised by Minerva, the design of which has been attributed to Louis-Simon Boizot (1743-1809). The present clock has an identical front plaque and recessed decorations.