A gilt-mounted vernis martin bracket clock, Pierre Jacquet Droz, Swiss, circa 1780

9½-inch enamel dial signed P Jacquet Droz, A La Chaux De Fonds, the similarly signed movement with verge escapement and silk suspension, outside count wheel striking on a bell, the waisted case with foliate surmount and mounts, the whole finely painted with flowers and leaves; on a conforming bracket painted with a musician and dancers in a rural landscape 

Dial has old chips to edge and hairline cracks across the lower numerals, good original hands. Movement is complete and running at time of cataloguing but would benefit from a clean and service. Case in generally good condition with a few old cracks and scuffs , painted decoration in good condition. Bracket as the case. With pendulum and winder but no case 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."

Pierre Jacquet Droz was born in La Chaux De Fonds, Switzerland in 1721. He was a celebrated clockmaker but is particularly well known for the spectacular automata that he created and sold to the King of Spain, Ferdinand VI. He died in Bienne, Switzerland in 1790.