Lot 141
  • 141

Papon

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 CHF
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Description

  • AN EARLY OVAL GILT METAL PRE-HAIRSPRING VERGE WATCH WITH ALARMCIRCA 1574
  • brass
  • length 64 mm
• gilt full plate verge movement, twin barrel, pre-hairspring balance, wheel and click (lacking wheel), flat brass two-arm balance, alarm striking on a bell • gilt engraved dial with foliate and scroll design, applied chapter ring, Roman numerals, rotating central disc for setting the alarm • oval case with pierced engraved decoration depicting grotesque motifs, engraved foliate band • signed under the chapter ring

Condition

The movement is not running or striking, there appear to be parts missing as there are spare holes in movement plate. The chapter ring and alarm disc are loose and come off the dial easily. The pierced decoration to the case is very worn, there is a slight break to the centre. This a very interesting piece from this period.
"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 present example is engraved below the dial 'L Papon F 1574' which allows us to believe that it is one of the earliest portable timepieces made. The 'F' probably stands for the word 'Fecit', its decoration is typical of the period with mythological and religious subjects. From this period there exists an early spherical watch signed by Jacques de la Garde which is now in the Louvre Museum collections of early watches.