Collector's Pocket Watches, Wristwatc...

Grand Havana Room, New York, Sep 20, 2001

LOT 83

The Boule de GenèveGeneva, No. 8782, retailed by Marasca & Rossello, Mondevideo, circa 1895.Fine and very rare, 18K varicolored gold, platinum and diamond, keyless "Boule de Genève" pendant watch suspended from a matching brooch.

USD 2,000 - 2,800

Sold: USD 2,415

C. three-body, ball-shaped, green gold bezels of unusual matte texture, darkened gold band, all covered with very fine platinum filigree appliqués of a floral and foliate pattern set with fine rose-cut diamonds, LeCoultre patented winding/setting system by rotating front bezel, matching gold, platinum and diamond brooch in the shape of a double ribbon suspended from a short chain. D. white enamel, Arabic numerals with "12" in red, gold and silver paillon minute ring. Gold "spade" hands. M. 13.2m ø (6'''), gilt brass, 10 jewels, cylinder escapement, three-arm gilt balance, flat balance-spring.Signed by the retailer on the dial, movement and case numbered.Diam. 17 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good

Case: 3

Good

Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 3 - 11 - 01

Notes

When Marius LeCoultre of Geneva patented the bezel winding mechanism (12 January, 1889, Swiss patent No. 114) it was mostly employed in ball shaped watches called "Boules de Genève". The majority of them were based on 8''' movements. They were usually well decorated but hardly ever in platinum. The present watch is unusual not only because it incorporates platinum, but also for its small size and the rare choice of green and dark gold.