Important Collectors’ Wristwatches, P...

Hong Kong, Apr 23, 2006

LOT 345

"The Belt Buckle" William Ballantine, London, No. 112. Made for the Chinese market, circa 1790. Fine and extremely rare gilt brass and enamel, quartz, garnet and paste-set belt buckle fitted with center seconds watch in a leather fitted box.

HKD 60,000 - 90,000

USD 8,000 - 12,000 / EUR 6,500 - 10,000

Sold: HKD 88,500

C. Oval, centered in the front with the watch, translucent Imperial blue enamel panel on each side with quartz, diamond and ruby colored pastes around, polished back, two gilt loops for the belt. D. White enamel, radial Arabic numerals, outer minute/seconds divisions with fifteen-minute/seconds star markers. Gold ?Arrowhead? hands. M. 36 mm, frosted gilt full-plate with cylindrical pillars, fusee and chain, cylinder escapement, three-arm steel balance with flat balance spring, single-footed cock. Dim. 93 x 67 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-23-01

Good

Later

HANDS Original

Notes

Belt buckles for the Chinese market fitted with a watch are rare. There is one in the Peking Palace Museum, one in a private Swedish Collection, and a very few others in private hands.