A George IV gilt-brass and white marble great wheel skeleton timepiece, Thomas Jefferys & Philip Gilbert, London, circa 1800

1¾-inch annular enamel chapter ring signed Jefferys & Gilbert, the movement with chain fusee to the great wheel, pin-wheel escapement with silk suspension and sunburst pendulum, the Y-shaped frame mounted on the backs of four gilt dragons, on an oval marble base

Christie's, King Street, 1 July 2005, lot 53

The timepiece is illustrated and described, Derek Roberts, Continental and American Skeleton Clocks, 1989, Fig. 60.

Dial has a hair crack between 6 & 7. Movement is complete and looks as though it would run but would benefit from a clean and fresh oil. Frame and base in good condition. No winder.
"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 partnership of Jefferys and Gilbert in Cockspur Street, London was very short lived. Until 1797 it was Jefferys, Jones and Gilbert but in that year William Jones died and the firm became Jefferys and Gilbert.  In 1801 the partnership between Thomas Jefferys and Philip Gilbert was dissolved, leaving Philip Gilbert to trade as jeweller and goldsmith to The King on his own.