Important Collectors’ Wristwatches, P...

Geneva, Nov 16, 2008

LOT 552

View of Ile Rousseau Antoine Salmon, Geneva, No. 430. Made circa 1947. Fine and rare, gilt brass and painted on enamel singing bird box. Accompanied by the original leather-covered fitted box and a birdform key.

CHF 5,500 - 7,500

USD 5,000 - 7,000 / EUR 3,500 - 4,700

Sold: CHF 7,800

C. Rectangular, gilt brass with engine-turned decoration, finely painted on enamel oval lid depicting a view of the ile Rousseau (Geneva), the inside painted with a bouquet of roses on a blue ground. M. Rectangular, 90 x 47 mm, brass, turned pillars, large spring barrel, rectangular bellows, bird with flapping wings, opening beak and fluttering tail, two large cams controlling the piston and the bird's movements, long duration of song, grille pierced and engraved with foliage. Movement signed and numbered. Dim. 95 x 58 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good

Case: 3

Good

Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Notes

Very few, if any, singing bird boxes are known to be signed by Antoine Salmon, making the present box an important documentary piece.
Antoine Salmon (c.1876-1951) Although originally French, Antoine Salmon had settled early on in Geneva and had become thoroughly integrated, even taking on a marked Genevoise accent. He lived in the Rue des Buis, in the middle of the Paquis clockmaking quarter