L. Duchêne & Fils

• gilt cylinder movement, female winding squares • signed and number gold cuvette • silvered dial, Roman numerals, engine-turned centre, blued steel moon hands • foliate and scroll champlevé enamel design to the case back • the watch held within a yellow gold and enamel bracelet, openwork links of entwined snakes, hinged over to the centre with black and white Neo-Classical design with polychrome enamel cherub

The movement is running at the time however it would benefit from a service. Some slight scratches to the dial. The case back with slight scratches to the enamel. The snake bracelet with small chips to the enamel throughout. Overall in very nice condition. The hinge to the presentation case is damaged and requires restoration.
"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."

ACCOMPANIED BY A MALE WINDING KEY AND FITTED PRESENTATION CASE.

This early type of wristwatch is actually better called a bracelet with a watch. A trend towards miniaturisation made it possible for the wristwatch to come into existence. At the beginning of the 19th century wide decorative bracelets gained popularity and these were adored with a small watch. The black and white enamel work seen here is typical of the Geneva style.
For a similar example signed Capt et Freundler see Kahlet, Mühe, Brunner, Wristwatches, Schiffer Publishing Ltd, 1986, fig. 129.