Important Modern and Vintage Timepieces.

Geneva, Nov 13, 2010

LOT 385

Swiss Cabriolet Watch Swiss, retailed by French, Royal Exchange, London, No. 34241. Made for the English market, circa 1850. Fine and rare, 18K gold reversible hunting-cased cabriolet pocket watch.

CHF 3,000 - 5,000

USD 3,000 - 5,000 / EUR 2,200 - 3,700

Sold: CHF 5,000

C. Outer: three-body, detachable, entirely engraved with foliage, the cover with engine-turned interior. Inner: fourbody, engraved pendant, bezel and bow, polished band, the back cover entirely engraved with foliage to match the outer case. Hinged gold cuvette. D. White enamel with radial Roman numerals, outer minute track, subsidiary seconds. Blued steel spade hands. M. 17???, matte gilt, bar caliber, 22 jewels, lateral lever escapement with tail, cut bimetallic compensation balance, blued steel flat balance spring, index regulator. Cuvette signed by the retailer. Diam. 51 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-01

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

The cabriolet watch was probably conceived for customers who enjoyed field sports. The purpose of the reversible case is to protect the glass and dial from impact during vigorous activity. This idea was developed further by Jaeger LeCoultre in the 20th Century in the design of the iconic ?Reverso? wristwatch.