Nicole Frères

• 長方形紫檀盒，果木細工鑲嵌珍珠母貝，盒內有上弦機構及控制桿，內蓋附曲調表，上釉面板下為機芯 • 機芯附精鋼梳子、銅柱、響鈴、鼓、停止鼓聲之控制桿及急停裝置
* 拍品資料以英文圖錄為準。

The present lot contains endangered species which is subject to United States Fish & Wildlife Services CITES restrictions upon international export. The time frame for shipment outside the United States is approximately 6-8 months. Box in very good condition with minor scratches to the top and minor scratching overall. Typical wear consistent with the age of the piece. Inlay to the top with light wear and scratches, several small pieces missing to the inlay borders on the very edges of the lid. Music in good working order. Accompanied by a key for the box.
"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.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Music boxes were primarily made using a pinned cylinder which rotates against a comb from the 1840s until the early 20^thcentury. The cylinder, upon completing one of the tunes, shifts slightly so the extremely thin teeth line up with a new set of pins on the same cylinder to play a separate tune.  

This large Nicole Frères musical box is an excellent example from the middle of the 19th century. With its well made box with inlaid musical trophy and mother-of-pearl accents, to the comb which retains perfect teeth and dampers, the present lot is one of the most desirable Nicole Frères boxes to be offered publicly. Mechanically, this box has been consistently maintained and continues to produce a rich sound. The mainspring is wound by a ratchet lever on the inside of the case. The drums, set below the comb and barrel assembly, are able to be shut on and off via a small lever attached to the right of the mainspring. The inside lid includes the original hand written tune listing.