Alexander James Strachan

• rectangular box with engine-turned panels, the hinged cover inset with a micromosiac panel depicting the Temple of Minerva Medica, bordered by raised running oak border, the underside engraved with the presentation inscription, music fitted within the base • the front panel with slides for the music and for tune selection • the box stamped with casemaker's mark A.J.S (Alexander James Strachan) and London hallmarks for 1830, now rubbed, movement signed Ducommun Girod, Geneva

The music work functions properly. The box with nice patina and in good condition overall, with winding key.
"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."

The interior lid engraved: Presented to Dr. Dobson by George Belson Esqr. For his skillful advice and unremitting attention to his Brother Major General Sir Charles Philip Belson K.C.B. 5th November 1830.

Major General Belson (1773-1830) lead a distinguished career in the British Military beginning in 1794. During the Waterloo Campaign in 1815 he commanded the 1st Battalion 28th Foot. Following the Battle of Waterloo he led the 8th Brigade. Belson was ultimately promoted to Major General in 1819. He died in London in 1830. The box presumably was a gift from his brother to the physician who cared for Major General Belson at the time of his death. A marble bust of Major General Belson is in the collection of the National Army Museum, London.

Alexander James Strachan is the best known maker of gold and silver boxes in early 19th century London and was the principal supplier to the Royal Goldsmiths Rundell, Bridge & Rundell.  Strachan was also noted as "the most productive of the early nineteenth-century London box makers," see Truman, C., The Gilbert Collection of Gold Boxes, p.321. Strachan's first mark was registered in 1799.

Ducommun Girod, were makers of music boxes and worked in Geneva during the 19th century. For a discussion of this maker see, Orde-Hume, A. W. J. G., The Musical Box, A Guide for Collectors, p.285.