H.R. Ekegren

• manual winding lever movement, 31 jewels, two hammers repeating on two gongs • silvered dial, applied Breguet numerals, engine-turned subsidiary seconds • 18k yellow gold case and cuvette, back with monogram, repeating slide to the band • case, dial, cuvette and movement signed 

The movement and the minute repeating is functioning at the time of cataloguing. The dial has clear signs of aging, the numerals are oxidized. The case has scuffs and scratches throughout and slight oxidization has started, especially near the the dial. The watch has not been tested to determine the accuracy of its timekeeping. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and that a service may be required at the buyer's discretion.
"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."

Henri-Robert Ekegren (1823-1896) was one of the most prolific and masterful independent watchmakers at this time in Geneva. After training with Urban Jürgensen & Sonnen in his hometown of Copenhagen and later with Jules Jürgensen in Le Locle, Ekegren opened his own firm (with partner Ferdinand Westermann) in 1857.

After the partnership split in 1862, he would sign all his watches 'H.R. Ekegren, Geneva'.