ETIENNE TAVERNIER | TWO GOLD TAVERNIER KEYS IN FITTED DESOUTTER RETAILER'S PRESENTATION CASE CIRCA 1800

• mechanism: the calendar and moon phases advanced when the keys are inserted into a watch's winding square and reset via a lever in the band • dials: front dials - white enamel, days of the week in French, outer date indication, ach signed Et Tavernier • back dials - each gilt engine-turned with aperture for moon-phases • cases: gold with milled bands• Accompaniments: Moroccan leather fitted retailer's box for the two Tavernier keys signed Desoutter, 4 Hanover Street, London, W

Would recommend viewing this lot.
"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 Tavernier keys incorporate an ingenious manual calendar - when the key is placed on the watch's winding square, a steel rod is pushed upwards to advance the day and date. At the same time, a slide appears through the band and when this is pushed back towards the case, the moon phase is advanced and the steel rod is returned to the end of the key's pipe to await its next insertion upon the winding square. The lunar plate is doubled and makes one complete revolution every two months - this compensates for a 28½ day lunar month. Etienne Tavernier was born in Paris in 1756 and became well known for his bracelet and ring watches. He supplied Breguet with watch cases and keys and also worked for R. Robin. Tavernier was also a maker of snuff boxes.