Important Watches, Wristwatches and C...

Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Oct 15, 1994

LOT 409

Sermand, (Geneva), circa 1660. Very fine and rare gilt-metal and rock-crystal "crucifix" watch.

CHF 70,000 - 80,000

C. Two-part frame, the borders engraved with hatched patterns, the dial surround with foliage spandrels. Facetted rock-crystal back and cover, loose-ring pendant and button finials. D. Hinged and lobed gilt-brass dial plate engraved with foliage, a Cupid and three angel's heads. Applied silver chapter-ring with Roman hour numerals and half hour divisions, the centre with an engraved village. Single blued steel balluster pattern hand. M. Hinged gilt-brass full plate with turned urn pillars, fusee with gut-line, short train, verge escapement, plain twoarm steel balance without spring. Irregular oval florally pierced and engraved cock secured by a pin the ratchet-wheel set-up cock with similar decoration. Signed on the back plate. In excellent condition. Dim. 60.x 36 mm.


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Notes

Sermand Jacques, the nephew (1636-1667), son of Pierre. Apprentice with Isaac Penard in 1650. Married in 1654. He is famous for rock crystal watches. A watch from the Paul Garnier's collection with astronomical indication also bears his signature. He had three pupils: Mathieu Chais in 1660, Jacques Conte in 1662 and Pierre Gradelle in 1664. He left Geneva in 1667 for Constantinople to sell his watches, but died during the trip.