PATEK PHILIPPE | REFERENCE 1177M, A UNIQUE GILT BRASS SOLAR POWERED DOME TABLE CLOCK WITH CLOISONNÉ ENAMEL BY ELIZABETH PERUSSET LAGGER, MADE IN 1979

As well as producing some of the finest and most complicated watches in the world, Patek Philippe have also taken it upon themselves to preserve some of the worlds most complicated art forms which would have, but for watchmaking, all but vanished. The present lot, its surface almost entirely comprised of cloisonné enamel panels, exemplifies this dedication.  

Enamelling is arguably one of the more complex and visually striking artisanal techniques, and this becomes no more evident than on this particular clock. It is a skill that takes years of patience and dedicated practice to master every technique to successfully create such a work. It is and of itself an incredibly multi-faceted affair and the master enameller is required to control every aspect of the piece's production; from the mixing of the colours themselves, to their delicate application and, finally, their precise firing.

The desk clock is a perfect way for an artist to showcase their ability to create beautiful objects. Applying enamel on to the panels requires extremely delicate handling and immense technical ability, as enamel is particularly prone to breaking.

The enamel of this clock was created by Elisabeth Perusset Lagger, a master enameller, who created polychrome enamel masterpieces for Patek Philippe in the second half of the 20th century. Furthermore, the clock is accompanied by its fitted presentation box and original certificate.