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.


LOADING IMAGES
Click to full view
Image

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.