Important Watches, Collector's Wristw...

Hotel Richemond, Geneva, Oct 13, 2001

LOT 595

The Knife GrinderUnsigned, probably Geneva, circa 1810.Fine and unusual quarter-repeating watch with four automata and auxiliary automaton scene.

C. Three-body, "Empire", engine-turned with reeded band. Hinged gilt brass cuvette. D. White enamel chapter ring with Breguet numerals, the center with a fine varicolored automaton scene applied over a polished steel ground: an urn of flowers on a bridge is flanked by two cherub jacks striking the hours and quarters on two bells; also driven by the repeating train, another automaton scene below the arch of the bridge features a knife grinder whose grindstone is driven by a large wheel turned byboy. Blued steel "serpent" hands. M. Gilt brass full plate with cylindrical pillars, fusee with chain, verge escapement, plain brass three-arm balance, flat balance-spring, gilt brass continental cock with polished steel end-piece. Repeating on gong by depressing the pendant.Diam. 58 mm.