Omega

Seamaster Cloisonné "Neptune", Reference OT 2520 | A yellow gold wristwatch with cloisonné enamel dial, Made in 1954

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

1,300,000 - 3,000,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

PROPERTY OF AN IMPORTANT ASIAN COLLECTOR

Omega

Seamaster Cloisonné "Neptune", Reference OT 2520

A yellow gold wristwatch with cloisonné enamel dial, Made in 1954

Dial: cloisonné enamel depicting Neptune and two Seahorses

Calibre: cal. 354 automatic, 17 jewels

Movement number: 13'737'795

Case: 18k yellow gold, screw down case back

Case number: 11'117'192

Closure: tan unsigned leather strap and 18k yellow gold Omega buckle

Size: 34 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Omega Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present watch on 20 November 1954

Between 1946 and 1956, Omega produced a very limited number of wristwatches featuring cloisonné enamel dials. Among these, five examples showcased dials depicting Neptune riding his chariot, all crafted by the renowned Fabrique de Cadrans Stern Frères of Geneva and painted by the same artist, Mlle Nelly Richard.

Cloisonné is an ancient enamel technique where enamel paste is held in place by metal strips or wires affixed to the dial to create a complete scene. The dial is then fired at approximately 1,000 degrees Celsius to set the colors, followed by hand-polishing to achieve a perfectly flat surface. Due to the complexity of the process, only a handful of artists master this technique, and Mlle Nelly Richard is recognized as one of the most celebrated, having created many dragon and map dials for brands like Omega, Rolex, and Patek Philippe. Research indicates that the "Neptune" dial was one of the most costly designs produced during the same era. Mlle Richard received approximately 86 Francs for each dial, while Omega was charged around 155 Francs by Stern Frères.

According to an extract from the Omega Archives, the current watch, with case number 11'117'192, was manufactured in November 1954. Records indicate that this was the fifth piece among the five Neptune dials to enter the market. With its extreme rarity, notable auction records, and a cloisonné enamel dial in pristine condition, it stands as one of the most sought-after and collectible Omega wristwatches of all time.

歐米茄 Seamaster Cloisonné "Neptune" 型號OT 2520

黃金腕錶，備掐絲琺瑯錶盤，1954年製

附帶後補資料庫精粹

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."