Marcus & Co. / Mathey-Tissot

• rectangular nickel key-wound movement • polychrome champlevé enamel dial with Asian-inspired hunting scene, Eastern Arabic white gold and diamond set numerals, white gold and diamond set elaborate arrow hands • 18k yellow gold case of rectangular form, composed of black and red lacquer panels, the front panels set with carved jade emblems with diamond accents, top further applied with a rectangular carved jade plaque fitted with a button which controls both the repeat function and release of the front panels, the case mounted with an orb-form green enamel finial, raised on bun feet on a stepped lacquer platform • movement signed Mathey-Tissot, case signed Marcus & Co.

Movement running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Case in overall very good condition with several light scratches. Ornament to the top is slightly loose. Front left jade decoration with slight damage and loss. Slight loss to finish on the repeat/door open button. Dial in very 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."

With original Marcus & Co. fitted box.

For a similar timepiece see William, H., Enamels of the World, 1700-2000, p 423, fig. 312. 

Marcus & Co was established by Herman Marcus after emigrating to the United States, circa 1850. Marcus began work in the US at Tiffany & Co., and after departing Tiffany ran several partnerships until 1892.  Working with his two sons, William and George, Herman Marcus created a brand which became well known for their elaborate handmade pieces.  The firm continued to make jewelry throughout the beginning of the 20th century until their eventual sale to Black, Starr and Frost.