Lot 153
  • 153

Swiss

Estimate
40,000 - 60,000 CHF
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Description

  • A FINE AND RARE THREE-COLOUR GOLD AND DIAMOND MUSICAL SCENT FLACON WITH INSET WATCHCIRCA 1780
  • gold and diamond
  • length 110 mm
• gilt cylinder escapement, steel balance wheel • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, Arabic outer track • hinged cover to the dial with three-colour gold chased and engraved decoration depicting cupid, flaming hearts and two doves, diamond band surrounded by floral motifs, hinged cover to the rear of the flacon with pierced decoration, oval panel depicting cupid with a dog, diamond band, the side engraved with a running band, engraved stopper • gilt musical movement to the back of the flacon, pinned barrel, 5 hammers, music regulated by a govenor, the music released by means of a lever below the front panel • the stopper with marker's mark M&P

Condition

The movement is not running, the balance rotates for a short while but then stops. The enamel dial is in good condition. The cover to the movement has some tarnishing by the hinge. There is some wear to the decoration on the case and some scuffs but overall it is in good condition. The mechanism for the music is operating however the sound is not very good, there are 5 hammers but only 3 bells present which suggest two are lacking. These will need replacing for it to play correctly.
"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

Accompanied by an associated fitted case.

The decoration to this flacon is similar to that of gold boxes and watches from the 18th Century. Similar examples of scent flacons incorporating watch movements can be found in the Louvre Museum and in the Patek Philippe Museum. It is very rare to find this combination of both watch movement and musical mechanism.