Piaget

• quartz movement • pavé diamond-set dial • bezel set with 22 round-cut diamonds • tapered hinged cuff bracelet set with 196 sapphires • case, dial and movement signed • total diamond weight approximately 2.62 cts, total sapphire weight approximately 78.75 cts 

A very rare and exceptional piece. This piece was originally made in 18k white gold which was subsequently plated in yellow gold. This finish has worn off slightly, revealing the white gold at some relief points in the sapphire setting as well as at the edge of the interior. Please note that the watch is quartz (rather than manually-wound, as stated in the catalogue). It currently requires a new battery. As this repair will take approximately 2-3 weeks following the sale to be completed, the piece will not be available for immediate shipment. Sotheby's will be happy to arrange this repair and cover the cost.
"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."

As the Swiss watchmaking world was being upended by the newly developed quartz movements in the early 1970s, a good deal of energy was being devoted to the creation of ultra-thin watches, a technical marvel that have of late fallen flat in their aesthetic appeal. By contrast, Piaget's cutting-edge jewelry pieces from this time period stand out as some of the most timelessly chic from the era.

During the early part of the 1970s, Piaget produced the celebrated 'Esclave' cuff watches, made under the direction of Jean-Claude Gueit. Incorporating a variety of gems and stones in creative forms, these pieces are prized by collectors today for their utterly avant-garde and daring designs.

The present example stands out among the famed Piaget jewelry designs for its timeless and sophisticated aesthetic. Elegant and modern, it is one of the most wearable and eye-catching Piaget cuff watches to have come to auction in recent years.

Piaget confirms production of the piece in 1977.