Lot 48
  • 48

Fromanteel

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 CHF
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Description

  • AN FINE AND RARE GOLD AND ENAMEL VERGE WATCH WITH SCENES BY HUAUD FRERESCIRCA 1680
  • diameter 39 mm
• gilt full plate movement signed Fromanteel, pierced and engraved balance cock • painted enamel dial with centre depicting a couple in colourful robes, Roman numerals • the case decorated entirely with enamel scenes, case back depicting Mercury and Minerva, sides with landscape vignettes separated by acanthus scrolls, the interior with a classical landscape, signed within the band Fratres Huauts pinxerunt

Condition

The movement is not running, the balance rotates when power is applied to the train. There are some hairline cracks to the dial. The case with damage around the bow and cracks to the side. Damage to the inside near the bow which has been crudely restored. The interior and case back scene are in good condition.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The vibrant enamel work of Huaud Frères has long been admired by many collectors, considered today as the best known and most prolific family of enamellers of their time. The father, Pierre Huaud I (1612 -1680), was a Protestant of French origin who moved to Geneva, where he became an inhabitant in 1630. He finished his apprenticeship as a goldsmith with Laurent Légaré in 1634 and soon after became a Master Goldsmith. His three sons also became enamel painters: Pierre II (1647-c.1698), Jean-Pierre (1655-1723) and the younger brother Ami (1657-1729) were appointed enamel painters by the Brandenburg Elector Frederick III.

The Fromanteel family were watch and clockmakers of repute. Some of their exceptional work can be  found in the London City Museum, London Science Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, and the Carnegie Museum in Pittsburgh, among others.