Lot 53
  • 53

Swiss

Estimate
15,000 - 18,000 CHF
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • A YELLOW GOLD HUNTING CASED QUARTER REPEATING KEYLESS WATCH WITH CONCEALED EROTIC AUTOMATONNO 15426 CIRCA 1870
  • gold, enamel
  • diameter 53 mm
• manual winding lever movement, 25 jewels • 18k yellow gold cuvette • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, subsidiary seconds • 18k yellow gold case, polychrome enamel painted erotic automaton depicting a lady and gentleman concealed under the cuvette, both covers engraved with stylized vine leaves and foliage decoration, engraved band • case numbered

Condition

Please note that the movement has not been checked for timekeeping accuracy and Sotheby's will not be held responsible for any repairs should they be require. The movement is working at the time of cataloguing and the quarter mechanism strikes the correct time. The dial is in good condition but would benefit from a clean. Case with signs of wear. Overall 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

Ever since clockmakers have been making watches, they have adorned, decorated and then animated them according to the fashions of the day and the tastes of their customers. 
Jaquemarts, small automata striking the hours, were rapidly seized on by ingenious clockmakers to fulfil other functions. Different mechanical principles were employed to animate the scenes. The repeater mechanism was without doubt the most well-known means of animating an erotic scene. Automaton scenes in watches are very rare, the present watch includes an erotic scene showing an 'indiscretion'.The most prominent maker of Jaquemarts, of which many have been attributed to, is the famous Geneva watchmakers Chevalier & Cochet.