ESKA | PINK GOLD WRISTWATCH WITH CLOISONNE ENAMEL DIAL DEPICTING THE ALLEGORICAL FIGURES FOR DAY AND NIGHTCIRCA 1950

Dial: cloisonné enamelCalibre: cal. 1361 automatic, 17 jewelsCase: 18k pink gold, screw-down backCase number: 143'866Dimensions: 35 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: none

MVT: not running at the time of cataloguing. CASE: in crisp condition retaining brushed and polished surfaces, sharp edges and good proportions. DIAL: in very good condition. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

Founded in 1918 by Sylvan Kocher, Eska derived from the abbreviation of Kocher's initials, 'S.K'. Founded in Selzach, Switzerland, Eska Watch Co relocated to the nearby town of Grenchen in 1937.  This automatic, 18k pink gold timepiece can be found with a rare polychrome cloisonné enamel depicting a poetic motif in the sky: the moon and sun are shown as man and woman respectively, depicted in vibrant colourways whilst walking amidst the clouds. Considered as a fine example of the decorative dial craft, the cloisonné enamel is widely regarded as a high art in watchmaking design due to its fragility and intricacy of detail, requiring years of training to attain such a skill in horological craftsmanship. Such dials were supplied to larger brands in the mid 20th century, those of which include Rolex, Vacheron Constantin and Omega, not to mention Eska of course. These dials were supplied by companies such as the Stern Frères, Charles Poluzzi and Huguenin & Cie.

The present watch has been retained in excellent condition, inscribed as waterproof on the back, and is a wonderful addition to a design-oriented collector with an eye for detail.