Lot 165
  • 165

BREGUET | REFERENCE 3938A WHITE GOLD AND DIAMOND-SET MINUTE REPEATING WRISTWATCH WITH 24 HOURS INDICATION, CIRCA 2000

Estimate
80,000 - 120,000 USD
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Description

  • REFERENCE 3938A WHITE GOLD AND DIAMOND-SET MINUTE REPEATING WRISTWATCH WITH 24 HOURS INDICATION, CIRCA 2000
Dial: silveredCalibre: cal. 567 mechanical, 30 jewelsMovement number: 3145Case: 18k white gold, snap on sapphire crystal display backCase number: 1494Closure: black unsigned leather strap and 18k white gold Breguet folding claspSize: 41 mm diameter Signed: case, dial and movement

Condition

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The minute repeating is in phase with a nice tone. The case is very good overall condition with minor wear. The case back with minor scuff marks. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of its timekeeping. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and that a service may be required at the buyer's discretion. **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."

Catalogue Note

The elusive Breguet reference 3938 encompasses the oldest continuously running watch company's know-how on both aesthetical and mechanical aspects. The impressive diamond-setting was wonderfully executed on the bezel, echoing the baguette-filled lugs on both their top section and profile as well as the crown. The traditional hand-guilloché dial is symmetrically laid-out with dedicated subdials for the power reserve indication and a 24-hour display. 

Finally and importantly, the tastefully decorated minute repeating caliber 567 displays the pocket watch construction Breguet is highly praised for. The closest model currently sold by Breguet bears no diamonds and retails for USD 237,000, making the present highest-grade example an exceptional opportunity for a collector to acquire a very rare and highly complicated wristwatch.