Arnold & Son

• cal. A&S 8100 manual winding movement, 19 jewels, one minute tourbillon • semi skeletonized dial, engine turned anthracite main plate, outer chapter ring with applied pink gold dart indexes, pink gold hands, sapphire crystal plate at 12, outer minute divisions • 18k pink gold case, stepped bezel and lugs, sapphire crystal display back secured by eight screws • case and dial signed • with an 18k pink gold Arnold & Son double folding clasp

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 excellent condition with light wear. Some very light surface marks to the bezel. Tourbillon function working properly. Dial and movement in excellent condition. Some wear to the double folding clasp. ***Please be advised that the bands on this watch are made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) and thus not sold with the watch, they are for display purposes only. We will remove these bands prior to international shipping.***
"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."

The tourbillon movement has had an integral role in the development of Arnold & Sons as a prestige watchmaking firm.  John Arnold himself collaborated with Abraham Louis Breguet, and the latter mounted his first ever tourbillon in Arnold's No. 11 movement, which currently resides in the British Museum's collection in London.

The firm finds inspiration in its esteemed history, as displayed by the guilloché pattern found on the main plate of the present lot, which pays homage to the cases of antique Arnold & Son pocket watches.  The firm focuses on combining old and new elements in its design for this piece.  The tourbillon on the Tes distinguishes itself from other models by being 'inverted', as most of its visually interesting features can are shown on the dial side, rather than the reverse.  The unique barrel spring bridge has the traditional English wave form, but Arnold & Son has updated the design by making it out of sapphire to allow a view of the open-worked barrel and wheels.

The present lot demonstrates the firm's ability to combine technological skill with elegant design to create a unique piece that honor's Arnold & Son's legacy, while also attracting modern collectors.