Important Watches

View full screen - View 1 of Lot 2317. A pink gold minute repeating perpetual calendar chronograph hunting case keyless lever watch, with moon phases and enamel dial, Circa 1895.

Attributed to Louis Audemars

A pink gold minute repeating perpetual calendar chronograph hunting case keyless lever watch, with moon phases and enamel dial, Circa 1895

Estimate

240,000 - 500,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Attributed to Louis Audemars

A pink gold minute repeating perpetual calendar chronograph hunting case keyless lever watch, with moon phases and enamel dial, Circa 1895

Dial: white enamel

Calibre: cal. 19’’’, mechanical, counterpoised straight-line lever escapement, bi-metallic compensation balance, jewelled

Case: 18k pink gold, hinged polished covers and cuvette with monograms engraved to the front

Case number: 10’980

Size: 55 mm diameter

Signed: none

Accessories: none

The present watch is a “triple complications” pocket watch. As the name implies, the watch integrates three complications — a minute repeater, perpetual calendar and chronograph — into a single timepiece. The triple complications represent a remarkable horological achievement, demonstrating the exceptional craftsmanship and innovation of watchmaking at the time. The present watch is a fine example from the golden age of watchmaking, produced to a high standard, and is a worthy collectible for any enthusiast.

Louis Audemars was a celebrated watch manufacturer founded in 1811 by Louis-Benjamin Audemars (1782-1833) and his son. Louis-Benjamin Audemars was one of the most important watchmakers in the Vallée de Joux and learned his craft from Phillip-Samuel Meylan. His ultimate dream was to establish his own brand and produce complete timepieces, from ébauche to finishing and casing, rather than operate solely as a movement ébauche workshop. That dream became a reality in the late 1840s and Louis Audemars & Fils became the largest watch manufacturer in the Vallée de Joux at that time. The manufacturer produced some of the most complicated watches in horological history and its creations were distinguished by the most prestigious awards.

應為Louis Audemars

粉紅金獵殼三問萬年曆計時懷錶，備月相顯示及琺瑯錶盤，約1895年製

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"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."