Lot 141
  • 141

Mobilis, Ullman, Normal Watch

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
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Description

  • AN INTERESTING GROUP OF NOVELTY WATCHES FOR THE CHINESE AND INDIAN MARKETS CIRCA 1900
  • Gilt metal
  • diameters 52 mm, 51 mm, 50 mm and 46 mm
the first: a front mounted 1 minute tourbillon, dial painted with osmanthus leaves, the reverse polychrome enameled portrait of a lady • the second: an eight day watch with three time zones, indicating time in Peking, Shanghai and Hong Kong, sweep seconds, the back with polychrome enameled portrait of a lady • the third: for the Indian Market with time in five world locations including London and Bombay • each: with silver-gilt cases • the fourth: a presentation watch commemorating Indian Independence, dial chapters painted with profile portraits of Indian Independence heroes, the back with relief figures of two Indian dignitaries shaking hands against the map of India

Condition

The first: The balance oscillates for less than a minute when wound before stopping, and the movement will need a complete overhaul. The dial appears intact. The case has discolored, but the engine-turning is well preserved. The case and cuvette are numbered 20486. The second: The balance does not oscillate, the movement is not functioning and will need a complete overhaul. The dial has some light spots, one darker near the 'H" in the word 'EIGHT' on the dial. The case has a dent to the left side of the coin edge band. The enamel is 'commercial' quality, with light scratches. The gilt case has lost some of its finish. The movement is stamped 8 JOURS/Swiss Made/EIGHT DAYS and signed J. Ullmann & Co., Hong Kong/ Shanghai & Tientsin. The dial is signed EIGHT DAYS WATCH and the three time displays are for PEKIN, HONG KONG and SHANGAI. The third: The balance oscillates for less than a minute when wound before stopping, and the movement will need a complete overhaul. The dial appears intact. The case is tarnished and discolored. The blue guilloche enamel background on the hinged back has been completely redone. There is loss of light green and light blue enamel accents to the engraved border of the portrait. The movement is signed MOBILUS and numbered 102529. The fourth: The balance oscillates when wound, but the movement will need to be serviced. The dial is intact. The case has some light scratches, and is generally well preserved.
"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."