Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Geneva, Nov 11, 2012

LOT 412

MUSICAL QUARTER-REPEATING WATCH Breguet et Fils à Paris, Swiss. Made circa 1820. Very rare and fine, musical and quarter-repeating, 18K gold pocket watch with barillet-type pinned cylinder musical movement.

CHF 12,000 - 16,000

USD 13,000 - 17,000 / EUR 10,000 - 13,000

Sold: CHF 18,750

C. Four-body, "Empire", engine-turned back with reeded band and bezel, bolt for music activation in the band. Hinged gilt-metal cuvette. D. Gold with Arabic numerals on circular white enamel cartouches, engraved leaf chapter ring, outer minute track, engine turned center. Blued steel Breguet hands. M. 50 mm, frosted and gilt, fi xed standing barrels for both trains, cylinder escapement with plain three-arm brass balance and fl at balance spring, index regulator, polished steel endplate, repeating on gongs activated by depressing the pendant. Cylinder musical train playing on the hour or at will, pinned cylinder and 37 tooth comb grouped in trios and pairs, gilt-brass cover over the musical movement engraved with a musical score. Cuvette signed. Diam. 59 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-75-01

Good

ENAMEL AND VARIOUS TYPES OF DECORATION Slightly restored soft enamel

HANDS Original

Notes

The movement of this watch is the rare barillet-type with pinned cylinder, a miniature version of the type of movements found in full-size musical boxes. Most makers during the early 19th century used the sur-plateau type movement with a fl at pinned rotating disc as opposed to a cylinder. The cylinder type is more robust and gives a more resonant sound, but requires a thicker case to house it.