Patek Philippe

• cal 17-170 nickel lever movement with the Geneva seal, 18 jewels • white matte dial, Roman numerals, subsidiary seconds • snap-on case back with a finely painted enamel scene of a Horse-Mounted Officer of the Imperial Guard after Theodore Gericault • case, dial and movement signed, enamel signed by enamelist H. Mercier

The movement is running and in pristine condition, however it may require a cleaning and overhaul. The case with very light surface wear and it appears that it has never been polished.
"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."

With an Extract from the Archives confirming sale with miniature painting on April 17th, 1975.

Known for her enamels depicting scenes inspired by Romantic artists, Helene Mercier was active as an enamellist for Patek Philippe from the 1970s through the early 1990s. The scene depicted on the presently offered lot is inspired by the painting "The Horse Mounted Officer of the Imperial Guard" by Theodore Gericault (1791-1824) and can now be seen at the Louvre. Mercier brilliantly reinterprets the Gericault masterpiece on this watch in miniature.

The Imperial Guard was a group of elite soldiers that were under the direct command of Napoleon and the unit acted as his personal body guard and escort. Napoleon respected and admired their lavish uniforms and often wore their uniform out of respect for their valor and style.