L\'ART DE L\'HORLOGERIE EN FRANCE DE ...

Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Nov 14, 1993

LOT 10

M. Fenie, circa 1635. An exceptionally fine and rare octagonal gilt metal and silver astronomical watch.

CHF 65,000 - 75,000

Sold: CHF 80,500

C. Octagonal, three body, plain gilt band with chevron engraved edge, the covers of faceted silver, the front engraved with St. Sebastian, the facets with summer flowers in low relief on a hatched ground, the back with John the Baptist carrying the Infant Jesus, with similar decoration to the border. Cast loose-ring pendant. D. Octagonal gilt metal dial plate engraved with scrolling fruit and foliage in low relief against a hatched ground, the dial centres with delicate urban landscape scenes, applied silver chapter ring at 6 o'clock with engraved Roman numerals and star pattern half hour marks, calendar ring above with Arabic numerals, apertures with silver discs for months with number of days at 10 o' clock, phase of the moon with calendar at 2 o' clock and week day with a representation of the planetary sign by the corresponding deity above 6. Blued-steel double ended tulip pattern hands. Located by four lugs and secured by a double spring clip. M. Octagonal gilt-metal plates, turned balluster pillars, fusee with gut, three wheel train with verge escapement, plain two-arm steel balance without spring, irregular delicately pierced and florally engraved balance cock secured by a screw, matching regulator cock, ratchet wheel set-up with matching cock, blued-steel wheel and click spring. Signed on the back plate. In excellent condition. Dim. 73 x 46 mm.


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Notes

No detailed records of the dates of this maker appear to exist. There is the possibility that the spelling of the name may not accord with written records; if renie is read as férie, then the maker might be Maurice-Bernard Ferry, although he is only known through records of a repair carried out for the Queen in 1579, which would probably be too early. The quality of the engraving and the complication of the dial would indicate that the watch was an important commission.