Geneva, May 12, 2024

LOT 374

JUST & SON, SWITZERLAND, MADE FOR THE CHINESE MARKET, DUPLEX ESCAPEMENT, 18K YELLOW GOLD

CHF 30,000 - 50,000

HKD 260,000 - 434,000 / USD 33,200 - 56,000 / EUR 30,600 - 51,000

Sold: CHF 40,000

An extremely fine, rare and decorative 18k gold, manual wind center seconds open face, adorned with a bezel, rim, pendant, and bow embellished with lustrous pearls. The band features a captivating design of alternating black and white champlevé enamel. The reverse side is adorned with a vibrant polychrome enamel bouquet of flowers, accentuated by two courting doves. This exquisite timepiece is crafted using a combination of two distinct enamel techniques: champlevé and painted enamel.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 2

Very good
Movement: 3*

Good

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

Very good

HANDS Original

Brand Just & Son, Switzerland

Model made for the Chinese market

Year Circa 1840

Movement No. 3332

Diameter 55 mm.

Caliber 20''' Chinese calibre finely chased and engraved entirely floral and scroll decorated gilt-finished movement, free standing barrel, ruby duplex escapement with ruby rest insert and steel impulse pallet, engraved floral and scroll decorated

Signature Movement and case numbered

Notes

This exquisite timepiece exemplifies a refined creation tailored for the discerning Chinese market, showcasing exceptional enamel craftsmanship reminiscent of cloisonné enamel. Employing an unusual and intricate technique, a masterful gold chaser skillfully carved the metal, forming the intricate motif by preserving only the delicate contour lines, mirroring the aesthetics of cloisonné. Subsequently, the cells were adorned with intricate images through a meticulous blend of enamel painting and vitreous enamel application.

Leonard Just specialized in crafting timepieces for the Chinese market. The company operated in London between 1790 and 1825. Following the British acquisition of Hong Kong in 1842, Just relocated to the island and managed the business there starting in 1846. After Leonard Just's demise, the enterprise transitioned to his son, continuing under the name Just & Son.