Exceptional Discoveries: The Olmsted Complications Collection
LS. Gallopin & Cie, Succrs de Henry Capt
A fine and rare yellow gold open-faced keyless two-train trip minute repeating watch, No. 46379, Circa 1900
Auction Closed
December 8, 10:03 PM GMT
Estimate
6,000 - 12,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Movement: two-train tandem wound movement, superimposed ratchet wheels with wolf’s teeth, lever escapement, bi-metallic compensation balance with overcoil, jeweled to the center, two asymmetrical polished steel hammers repeating on two coiled gongs, signed L. Gallopin & Cie. Sucs de Henry Capt, No. 46379. Genève
Dial: white enamel dial, Arabic numerals, outer minute ring with Arabic 5-minute markers, recessed subsidiary dial for constant seconds, signed LS Gallopin & Cie Succrs de Henry Capt, Genève
Case: 18k yellow gold, button through crown for trip-repeat, olivette for hand setting with protective shoulders, case back with Henry Capt spread eagle stamp, numbered 46379, cuvette engraved No. 46379, Henry Capt, L. Gallopin & Cie, Sucrs, Genève, Répétition a minutes poussoir au pendent
Signed: case, dial and movement signed, inside back lid with Henry Capt stamp
Diameter: 47 mm
Louis Gallopin’s involvement with Henri (or Henry) Capt & Cie began around 1880. The highly respected watchmaking firm Henry Capt was originally established by Henry Daniel Capt in 1819. Some years later, Henry Capt Jr. joined the business, developing it further in partnership with Louis Gallopin, who acted as his proxy. In 1893, Louis Gallopin became the sole proprietor of the firm. Louis’s son, Edward Gallopin, later joined the company, followed in turn by his own son, John Gallopin, in 1925. In 1961, Daniel Gallopin, great-grandson of Louis Gallopin, began working for the firm, continuing the family’s long horological tradition.
The house maintained a close relationship with Mr. Olmsted, as evidenced by correspondence dating from 1962, which reflects his continued interest in and support of E. Gallopin & Cie. For related letter correspondence concerning timepieces produced by the firm, see No. 31029.