James Nardin

• jewelled manual winding lever movement, two hammers repeating on two gongs • white enamel dial, painted black Roman numerals, outer minute track, subsidiary seconds • 18k yellow gold case and cuvette, the cuvette engraved with inscription, repeater slide to the case band, case back engraved with Arms • case, dial and movement signed 

The movement and the minute repeater is functioning at the time of cataloguing. The dial has minor signs of aging. The case is in fair condition with scuffs and scratches throughout which is consistent with the age of the watch. The front cover has a monogram with the letters GHW. Back cover has a coat of arms engraved with the words "FERIO TEGO" which is Latin for "I strike, I cover". The cuvette covering the movement has G. H. WATSON November 1879 engraved. 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."

James Nardin (1814-1885), an accomplished chronometer maker, was the first cousin of Ulysse Nardin.  He established his business in Le Locle, Switzerland and obtained a US patent for a stem-wound watch in 1869.  His company went on to win the Gold Medal for horology at the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1878.