Piaget

• cal. Beta 21 quartz movement • pavé-set diamond dial, sapphire dot indexes on each quarter hour • 18k white gold pavé-set diamond case, stepped bezel, back secured by 4 screws • case, dial and movement signed • articulated pavé-set diamond bracelet

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 required. Case in overall good condition, considering the age with some surface scuffs to the case back. It appears that the case has never been polished and the serial numbers to the case back are very easily legible. Bracelet in good condition. Circumference of bracelet is 190 mm, which could accommodate a relatively large wrist. Overall a substantial, heavy, and impressive watch. Gross weight approximately 235 grams.
"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."

The present example features a Beta-21 movement, released at the Basel fair in April 1970. It was the product of nearly 10 years of research and development by C.E.H., or Centre Électronique Horloger. Early quartz models all share a similar design with their large and generally more rectangular cases. This case shape was necessary to house the large rectangular shape of the movement. Today, the proportions and dimensions of this watch are quite stylish once again.

An identical example can be found in Cologni, F., Negretti, G., & Nencini, F, Piaget: Watches and Wonders Since 1874, New York, 1994, pp. 159.