View full screen - View 1 of Lot 82. Tonneau-shaped "Audemars Piguet & Co" wristwatch A rare 18k yellow gold manual winding wristwatch, circa 1920.

Audemars Piguet

Tonneau-shaped "Audemars Piguet & Co" wristwatch A rare 18k yellow gold manual winding wristwatch, circa 1920

Lot Closed

September 16, 02:21 PM GMT

Estimate

7,000 - 12,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

Audemars Piguet

Tonneau-shaped "Audemars Piguet & Co" wristwatch 

A rare 18k yellow gold manual winding wristwatch, circa 1920


Dial: silver

Calibre: manual, 10"' 

Case: 18k yellow gold, hinged snap on caseback  

Case number: 22'811

Movement number: 22'811  

Closure: associated steel buckle

Size: 46 x 26mm

Signed: case, dial and movement 

Box: no

Papers: no

Accessories: n/a

"ENDANGERED SPECIES This lot contains endangered species. Sotheby's recommends that buyers check with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to placing a bid. For example, US regulations restrict or prohibit the import of certain items to protect wildlife conservation. Please note that Sotheby's will not assist buyers with the shipment of this lot to the US. A buyer's inability to export or import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or sale cancellation."
The present piece is an extremely rare and early example of a wristwatch produced by Audemars Piguet. Extensive research could only confirm one other similar example.
The style of this watch is typical of the elegant period when it was created. The tonneau-shape reminds some rare yet more frequently seen pieces from Cartier or Patek for example. The case is slightly curved to offer a maximum of comfort on the wrist. The dial with the indexes, minute track and even the AP signature is harmoniously designed to accentuate the shape of the case. Even the hands testify the care that was taken to produce the most sophisticated and elegant piece. 
The 1920's period is rightly regarded as one of the most fascinating era for Audemars Piguet that produced super timepieces as exemplified by the present lot. It represents an opportunity not to be missed by a connoisseur.