Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Hong Kong, Nov 30, 2025

LOT 339

J. ULLMANN & CO, QUARTER REPEATER AND AUTOMATON, MADE FOR CHINESE MARKET, ENAMEL AND 14K YELLOW GOLD

HKD 50,000 - 90,000

EUR 5,600 - 10,100 / CHF 5,200 - 9,400 / USD 6,500 - 11,600 / JPY 1,000,000 - 1,790,000

Sold: HKD 57,500

A very fine and rare 14K yellow gold hunting-case, keyless-winding, quarter repeater pocket watch with automaton. Made for the Chinese market. The case and cover feature circular engine-turning, with the cover having a blank central cartouche and a hinged case back. The dial displays translucent blue enamel over an engine-turned ground, Roman numerals, and a subsidiary seconds dial. It also includes a polychrome enamel automaton scene depicting Mercury holding his caduceus and Father Time holding a harvesting scythe, striking the bells in unison with the quarter repeating function


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent
Case: 2-8

Very good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 2-24-01

Very good

Slightly chipped

HANDS Original

Brand J. Ullmann & Co

Model Quarter repeater and automaton

Year circa 1900s

Case No. 171725

Diameter 56 mm.

Caliber Calibre 21’’’, frosted gilt, 28 jewels, bi-metallic compensation balance, repeating on two steel gongs via two steel hammers, and automate mechanism

Weight 130.9gr. (approx.)

Signature dial, case and movement

Notes

This beautiful pocket watch by J. Ullmann & Co. was made for the Chinese market, as evidenced by the engraving on the dust cover highlighting key locations—Hong Kong and Shanghai. These engraving confirm the watch’s intended clientele and distribution in prominent Chinese trade hubs during the period. Combining Swiss precision with cultural relevance, this exceptional timepiece features a finely crafted movement with an automaton mechanism and a quarter repeating function. The watch remains in very good overall condition. This pocket watch stands as a testament to the historic watchmaking ties between Switzerland and China.