Important Watches, Collector's Wristw...
Hotel Richemond, Geneva, Oct 13, 2001
LOT 512
Etienne Tavernier, Paris, circa 1820.Rare 18K gold astronomical, moon phase, mechanical calendar key.
CHF 7,000 - 10,000
USD 4,200 - 6,000
Sold: CHF 13,800
C. "Empire", polished, glazed on both faces. D. White enamel on the front with day and date indications. Blued steel "cathedral" hands. Back with foliate-engraved gold plate with moon phase aperture, age of the moon engraved on the border. M. All the functions advance by depressing a small lever protruding from the band each time the key is inserted in the winding square.Signed on the dial.Diam. 25 mm.
| Grading System | |
|---|---|
Grade: AA |
Very good |
Case: 3 |
Good |
Movement: 3* |
Good Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense |
Dial: 3 - 01 |
Notes
Etienne Tavernierinvented this type of watch key while working in the rue de Bussy in Paris, (1772-1804). A reproduction of the original instructions supplied by Tavernier for such astronomical keys is published by Mathieu Planchon in "Musée rétrospectif de la Classe 96, Horlogerie à l'Exposition Universelle Internationale de 1900 à Paris", p. 141, pl. CXVIII bis.