Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Hong Kong, Nov 30, 2025

LOT 340

ATTRIBUTED TO BOVET, PAIR OF MATCHING MIRROR ENAMEL POCKET WATCHES, MADE FOR CHINESE MARKET, ENAMEL, PEARL, GILT BRASS

HKD 400,000 - 700,000

EUR 44,500 - 78,000 / CHF 41,500 - 73,000 / USD 52,000 - 91,000 / JPY 7,940,000 - 13,890,000

Sold: HKD 475,000

A very fine and very rare, gilt brass open-face, key-winding, round-shaped, pair of matching mirror-image large pocket watches, with centre-seconds, made for the Chinese market. Polychrome painting on enamel on copper, by an unidentified workshop, probably Geneva, showing summer flowers on a blue background.


Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 3-8

Good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 3*
Dial: 3-01

Good

HANDS Original

Brand ATTRIBUTED TO BOVET

Year circa 1860s

Case No. 4228, 4229

Diameter 62mm

Caliber 24’’’, gilt brass, engraved Chinese-style, Tixier calibre, with going barrel, duplex-Jacot escapement, monometallic balance (polished steel) with blued steel wings balance and blued steel flat hairspring

Accessories non original wooden fitted box

Notes

Objects intended for export to China were often crafted in pairs, featuring identical but mirrorimaged decorations to ensure they would complement each other when displayed. This unique practice stemmed from both symbolic and practical considerations. Symbolically, it resonated with the Chinese appreciation for symmetry, mirrored in their reverence for the auspicious ‘‘pair (雙)’’ symbolizing harmonious coexistence, it echoed the popular Chinese proverb proclaiming that «good things come in pairs.» Practically, if one required repairs in Europe, its twin remained at home. This pair of Bovet pocket watches exemplifies this tradition perfectly. Crafted in gilt brass with beautiful enamel decoration, they were specifically made for the Chinese market. The case numbers are 4228 and 4229 respectively, carefully prepared consecutive numbers for Chinese clients, demonstrating the elegant fusion of Swiss craftsmanship and delicate miniature enamel painting while highlighting the importance placed on Chinese culture. The cases are edged with half pearls, and the case backs display enchanting mirror image enamel paintings of «Early Summer Bouquet.» Produced circa the 1870s, these matched watches not only reflect the Chinese cultural preference for pairs symbolizing harmony and good fortune but also highlight the deep historical ties between Swiss watchmaking and China during the era. It is exceedingly rare for such pairs to have endured the tumultuous passage of the last two centuries and to resurface in public view, making these Bovet timepieces not just beautiful objects but important historical artifacts that document the cultural exchange between East and West.