Vianney Halter

• cal. VH 198 automatic lever movement, 43 jewels • four silvered dials, the first with black Arabic numerals, blued steel hands, the second indicating the day, the third the month and leap year, the fourth the date • 18k pink gold case, sapphire crystal display back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k pink gold Vianney Halter buckle 

The movement and functions working at the time of cataloguing. However, the date can only set onward, not backward and the corrector for the months doesn't work. The dial and hands in very good condition. The case in good condition with some indentations to the edges and some usual scuffs throughout. Spectacular piece. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time keeping and a service might be required at the buyer's expense.**Please note that the watch doesn't come with its original strap.**
"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."

With a Vianney Halter certificate, setting tool and winding box.

The Antiqua is the very first model created by Vianney Halter and it was first exhibited in 1998 at the Basel fair for its debut. The design of the piece was revolutionary and represents, still today, the DNA of Vianney Halter.

The present lot is part of the Futur Antérieur (Past Future) collection, the name evocating both the influence of the past and the avant-garde style.

The Antiqua is distinguished by its portholes displaying the time and the perpetual calendar. Beyond this fascinating design, reminding the universe of Captain Nemo, the attention to technical details was another priority for Vianney Halter. The dials, for example, are made of nine different parts, hand engraved and then filled with black resin. The crown alone is made of twenty-six components. The movement is fitted with the patented mysterious mass rotor. These are just a few of the characteristics of the Antiqua - the quality of the piece is such that it requires 900 hours to produce one of the few pieces realized each year. 

The present lot, from the early years of the manufacture, is an attractive example and comes with a very complete set including the winding presentation box.