BREGUET | A GILT BRONZE, NICKEL-PLATED AND PAINTED PORCELAIN HALF HOUR STRIKING CARRIAGE CLOCK WITH ALARM, SOLD TO MONSIUER VAN LOON FOR 500 FRANCS ON 26 SEPTEMBER 1887

Dial: painted porcelain Calibre: key wound anchor escapement Movement number: 3'168 Case: gilt bronze and nickel plated, hinged back Case number: 294 Size: 110 mm length x 90 mm width x 170 mm high Signed: movement signed Breguet, side panels signed L. Malpass for Louis Pierra Malpass Accessories: Breguet Certificate certifying date of sale on 26th September 1887 to Mr Van Loon, key and fitted Breguet carry case

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The case with some light signs of wear, and minor discolouration to the metal components. The porcelain panels too in very good condition. The dial in very good condition, some very slight wear to the chapter ring. 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."

This carriage clock, typical in construction for the period, features two beautifully painted porcelain panels realised by Louis Pierre Malpass. A known artist on porcelain, he was prominent toward the end of the 19th Century based on rue Pierre Leve, Paris. According to our research, it seems that a large amount of his work catered to the then popular Japonais style, while his westernised depictions being somewhat rare.  The provenance of the clock is just as interesting as the clock itself. Studying the certificate it may be concluded that it was formerly possessed by the van Loon family. Given the continental origins of the piece, it may be fair to assume this to be the Amsterdam van Loons, a family of significant wealth and repute. This family co-founded the Dutch East India company in 1602 and was promoted to nobility in the 19th century.

Interestingly for a clock of this age, it retains its original fitted carry case, branded to the base and with matching numbers.