Unsigned

• gilt verge movement signed Magnen, Paris • gold dial, center chased with foliate scrolls, Roman numerals • case in the form of a putto pushing a barrel-laden wheelbarrow fitted with watch movement and dial, whippet with ruby eyes and diamond collar running along, the yoke over the putto's shoulders set with diamonds, a gold urn on the wheelbarrow with diamond-set stopper serving as watch key, mounted on a green hardstone base

As noted in the online Catalogue note the present object is based on the well-known silver mustard pots by Antoine-Sébastien Durand, Paris, 1750, made for Mme. de Pompadour, now in the Gulbenkian Foundation, Lisbon. It is an amusing object. The watch movement is French late 18th century and as such is earlier than the object. The movement is running, however would benefit from a cleaning. The dial appears to date to the time of the case, which is from the 20th century. The minute hand is lacking, the key which is cleverly fitted into the wine jug is attached to the piece by a fine gold string and care should be taken when using the key not to break the strand. Other than some oxidation, the piece is in good cosmetic condition with only one turquoise bead missing at the front of the barrel.
"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."

The design of this unusual timepiece is based on the well-known silver mustard pots by Antoine-Sébastien Durand, Paris, 1750, made for Mme. de Pompadour, now in the Gulbenkian Foundation, Lisbon.