Breguet

• cal. 2320 decoratively engraved nickel lever movement, 21 jewels, mono-metallic balance • skelotonised dial engraved with flowers and foliate scrolls, brushed silvered outer arabic minute and seconds track, two brushed subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30 minutes register, blued steel Breguet hands • 18k white gold case, baguette-cut diamond-set bezel, baguette-cut diamond-set band and lugs, diamond-set round pushers to the band and crown, sapphire crystal display back secured by 7 screws • dial, case and movement signed • with an 18k white gold Breguet clasp

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of its time keeping and therefore a service should be carried out in the near future at the buyer's expense. Movement running and the time of cataloguing and chronograph functioning. Dial and hands in exceptional condition, engraving bright and defined. Case and clasp as new retaining protective service stickers. Very attractive piece, with recent service costing £1415.00 The total diamond weight is approximately 8.00 - 10.00 carats. **The strap of this wristwatch is made from an endangered species; please refer to important notices for further information.**
"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 Ref. 5238, a particularly flamboyant piece of Breguet's 'Classique' collection, is directly inspired by the maker's heritage and reputation, seeking to embody the fundamental principles by which Abraham-Louis Breguet himself revolutionised modern watch design. Indeed, the Caliber 2320 housed within the present lot, pays homage to A-L Breguet's observation chronometer, and his later work with Frederick Fatton on the 'Inking Chronograph' from the which the term Chronograph originates ('Chronos', meaning time and 'graphein', to record). Originally released in 1940 Cal. 2320 very quickly gained recognition for its reliability and performance.  Adopted as the movement of choice for use in the finest chronographs of the major Swiss manufacturers it was 'in a word... a watchmaking landmark'.