A gilt-mounted ebonised musical automaton table clock for the Chinese market, John Coleman, London, circa 1780

7-inch white enamel dial with centre seconds, rococo spandrels, subsidiary strike/silent and tune selection dials to the lower corners, the arch with an automaton scene of figures promenading in a rural riverside landscape, the substantial three train chain fusee movement with six knopped pillars, verge escapement, trip repeat striking on a bell and playing one of four tunes on a nest of eleven bells with fourteen hammers on the hour or at will, the backplate signed Coleman, London and engraved with a vase of flowers and foliate scrolls, the case with broken-arch top of three panels and with urn finials, Corinthian-capped facetted glass corner pillars, trellis and stylised tree side frets and brass carrying handles, the moulded turntable base with flower mounts and gilt bracket feet

Dial with three very minor hair cracks at the centre and at XII, subsidiary dials in good condition, original hands, spandrels and background appear to have been repainted with gold paint, automaton scene re-touched. Movement complete and appears to retain the original wheelwork throughout. Running at time of cataloguing but very much in need of a clean. Case has old damage to dial mask, other old cracks, scuffs and marks throughout, mounts appear to have been painted with gold paint. With two case keys and a winder.
"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."