18 Karat Gold, Enamel and Yellow Sapphire 'Serpenti' Wristwatch, Bulgari

Designed as a snake with a bracelet of serpenti design, with pear-shaped yellow sapphire eyes, the scales applied with red, blue, black, green and white enamel, gross weight approximately 138 dwts, expandable, dial and caseback signed Bulgari, dial also signed Jaeger Le Coultre.

In very good condition with very few signs of wear. The enamel is intact and the colors are bright. The yellow sapphire eyes are medium deep yellow and eye-clean. The watch face is displayed by flipping up the top of the snake's head. The back-wind mechanical movement is currently running. The gold underside bears a few minor scratches. The snake's body is flexible, well-made and can fit a variety of wrist sizes. Please see the Important Notice Regarding Watches on page 199 of the printed catalogue.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a sketch of similar enamel snake designs from the Bulgari Heritage Collection, circa 1967, see Bulgari: Serpenti Collection by Marion Fasel.