A Louis XVI enamel and marble skeleton mantel clock, Laurent Ridel, Paris, circa 1790

5½-inch principle dial with centre seconds, concentric calendar for day and Gregorian date, engraved trellis hands, subsidiary dials for phases of the moon and month, the skeletonised movement with pin wheel escapement mounted on the backplate, outside count wheel striking on a bell, the sunburst pendulum suspended from a beaded ring encircling the movement, the ormolu frame set with panels of blue enamel decorated with gilt stars, the centre panel signed Ridel A Paris, supported on short marble columns on a recatgular marble base, the frieze painted with flowers, on gilt toupee feet; together with a later ebonised stand and damaged glass dome

Principle dial in very good condition, hour hand fleur-de-lys clipped, moon dial has some old damage and restoration which could be much improved, month dial has two minor hair cracks, blue enamel panels in good condition. Movement is complete and would just run at cataloguing but is very much in need of a clean, pendulum suspension changed, poor repair to striking hammer, otherwise in good condition. Frame is in generally good condition retaining the original gilding, marble pinth has old damage and repairs to front right and rear left corners both of which could be much improved, other minor chips to rear edge. With pendulum and a winder, later ebonised base and damaged glass dome.
"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."