Albert H. Potter & Co., Geneva

• 21'" nickel movement with Potter's patented pivoted detent escapement, patented bridge layout, and Guillaume type balance, blued steel helical hairspring, free sprung regulation, jewels carried in gold screwed chatons • glazed cuvette • white enamel dial, painted black radial Roman numerals, blued steel Breguet hands, large subsidiary seconds, outer minute track • 18k pink gold hunting case • case, dial, and movement signed, case stamped with Potter's trademark balance wheel logo

The movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. Case in good vintage condition with surface scuffing and nicks consistent with age and use. Case bands with wear, scuffing and very small nicks upon close observation. Enamel dial in overall very good condition with some light debris. Oxidation to the perimeter of the sunken subsidiary seconds. Heavy oxidation to the Breguet hands - hands look black/deep purple to the naked eye. Glazed cuvette in good condition. Movement in good condition with some very light signs of oxidation to the main plate.
"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."

Potter remains one of the most celebrated American watch makers. The present example incorporates many features unique to Potter's production, including his patented safety barrel, his highly recognized bridge arrangement, his own form of pivoted detent, and his method of securing the movement in the case.

Albert H. Potter was born in Saratoga County, New York in 1830 and served his apprenticeship in Albany. In 1855, he established himself in New York City. He spent five years working in Cuba and later returned to the United States and organized a watch company with his brother William Cleveland Potter.

However, in 1876, he moved to Geneva.  He likely sought to surpass the boundaries of the American watchmaking industry, which, at the time, was focused on mass production, rather than individual innovation. 

He produced approximately 600 watches while working in Switzerland.