GE1201

/

Lot 151
  • 151

Swiss

Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 CHF
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • A YELLOW GOLD OPEN-FACED WATCH WITH VISIBLE BALANCE TO THE DIAL AND AUTOMATON SCENE TO THE REVERSECIRCA 1790
  • yellow gold
  • diameter 53 mm
• gilt full plate movement, cylinder escapement • white enamel dial, eccentric dial, Roman numerals, subsidiary dial for regulator, aperture for visible balance • engraved case, acanthus leaves engraved to the bezels, fan-form aperture to the back over an engraving of a classical female, the automaton depicting three figures; a man shooting a bird, a man walking a mule and a man drinking, in the landscape in the background is an automaton fountain, activated by a lever under the bezel

Condition

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing. The automaton figures are operating when activated by the lever under the bezel. Case in good condition.
"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

The first automatons appeared in the course of the 18th century. Produced in very limited quantities, and almost all on special request, they were technical achievements for many watchmakers at that time. This example, one of several automaton watches made in the late 18th century, is very interesting from both the dial layout with visible balance, and the aperture for an automaton scene on the back showing the movement of a donkey and a man shooting a bird along with movement impulsions. Automaton watches were fitted with complicated mechanisms and were regarded as works of art, not only in Europe but also by Chinese and Ottoman customers at that time.