S. Smith & Son, London

• cal. 22''' gilt movement with English lever escapement, cut bi-metallic compensation balance with gold screws • 18k yellow gold cuvette • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 60 minute register • 18k yellow polished, willis type case, two round pushers for split seconds chronograph, repeating slide • dial and movement signed, case and cuvette numbered and hallmarked for London 1898, case marker's mark SS

 

Lovely condition overall, the case has a good weight. The movement and split seconds chronograph are working at the time of cataloguing. The minute repeating mechanism is not working well and would need a service. The dial is in good condition with light discolouration. Case with light scuffs. Overall in very good condition. Movement signed S. Smith & Son Strand, London Watchmakers to the Admiralty. 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.
"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."

At the end of the 19th century, S. Smith & Son was the most prominent London maker of complicated watches. Samuel Smith, a jeweller and watchmaker, born in 1851, not only produced watches, but other time pieces such as chronometers. The excellent performance of these chronometers made the firm a supplier to the Admiralty. Shortly after this recognition, the firm developed into a large manufacturing company and remained a family run organization for generations to come.