Important collector's watches, wristw...

Hotel Richemond, Geneva, Apr 13, 2002

LOT 42

Unsigned, German, circa 1690. Extremely rare and important gilt brass folding knife fitted with a single-hand watch.

CHF 150,000 - 170,000

EUR 100,000 - 110,000 / USD 90,000 - 100,000

Sold: CHF 212,500

C. Both sides of the handle similarly engraved with a scrolling pattern, the edges engraved with a geometrical pattern, a watch fitted in the middle of the handle, polished hinged and glazed bezel. D. Silver with radial Roman champlevé numerals, inner quarter-hour ring, center with a chased flower. Blued steel ?beetle? hand. M. Shaped, brass, full plate, fusee and chain, four-wheel train, verge escapement, three-arm plain brass balance, flat balance spring. Length when folded 105 mm.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3-14

Good

Damaged
Movement: 3*

Good

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

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

Practical instruments mounted with mechanical watches are rare from any period, but notably so from the 17th century and earlier. The Dresden collection contains a watch mounted in a sword pommel from the 16th century, and at least one powder flask with a watch survives.