Important Watches, Wristwatches and C...
Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Oct 18, 1997
LOT 469
Tavernier, circa 1820. Rare 18K gold Tavernier mechanical moon phase astronomical calendar key.
CHF 6,000 - 8,000
C. Empire, polished, glazed on both faces. D. White enamel on the front with days of the week and outer date ring. Blued steel hands. Polished gold on the rear face, engraved with the initials: "O. V." with moon phase aperture, its age engraved on the border. M. All the functions advance by depressing a small lever which protrudes out of the band each time the key is inserted on the winding square. Signed on the dial. Diam. 26 mm.
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AA |
Very good |
Case: 4 |
Fair |
Movement: 2 |
Very good |
Dial: 29-51 |
Lacking elements Partially reprinted |
Notes
Although it is not signed, this key is absolutely identical to that
illustrated on Tavernier's own advertisement.
A reproduction of the original instructions supplied by Tavernier
for such astronomical keys, is published by Mathieu Planchon in
/W asee rctrosjectif de la Cla.sse 96, Horlogerie ri /Exposition Unive_rse_lle
Internationale de 1900 a Paris, p. 141, pl. CXVIII his.
At the time of their production, in particular by Breguet, watches
with female winding square wounded by means of a male key, were
designed by the term: a aobre pence.