Gold, enamel and diamond bracelet, 'Ludo Briquettes', Van Cleef & Arpels

Of jarretière design, the highly articulated band of brick linking decorated with a clasp of scroll design set with circular- and single-cut diamonds, the buckle composed of a line of circular-cut diamonds, within a border of black enamel, length adjustable from approximately 140 to 200mm, signed Van Cleef & Arpels, numbered, French assay and maker's marks.

Cf.: Evelyne Possémé, Van Cleef & Arpels, The Art of High Jewelry, pg. 96 for an example of a 'Ludo Briquettes' bracelet dated 1934.

Signed Van Cleef & Arpels, numbered 42656. French maker's mark for Pery (A.) et Cie, 7 boulevard Saint-Denis, 75003 Paris. French assay mark for 18 carat gold. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 8.50 - 10.50 carats, on average G-I colour, VS-I clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Scratches and small nicks to the enamel. Signs of normal wear to the metal consistent with age and use. In good condition. Gross weight approximately 101 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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 refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones.
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."

The 'Ludo' (Louis Arpels' nickname) bracelet, created in 1934, originally consisted in a flexible band of rectangular links arranged in a brick pattern. In 1935, Van Cleef & Arpels introduced the 'Ludo Hexagon' model where hexagonal links were arranged in a honeycomb pattern. A typical feature of these bracelets were clasps reminiscent of belt buckles.