Important collector's watches, wristw...

Hotel Richemond, Geneva, Apr 13, 2002

LOT 83

Black, Starr & Frost, New York, made by Rubel Frères, Paris, circa 1920. Very fine and important eight day-going, lapis lazuli, black onyx, rock crystal, mother-of-pearl, gold and platinum mystery clock, whose form and decoration are inspired by the Aztec Sun Stone, in original leather fitted box.

CHF 150,000 - 200,000

EUR 100,000 - 140,000 / USD 90,000 - 120,000

Sold: CHF 212,500

C. Black onyx rectangular molded base, lapis lazuli two-piece rectangular neck with gilt center piece supporting the dial, two columns on each side made from blue and green hardstone beads supported by rope-twisted gold wires surrounding the dial. D. Black onyx ring, Arabic numerals on oval mosaic cartouches made of vari-colored mother-of-pearl and coral, separated by gold-set green hardstone cabochons, transparent rock crystal center with suspended diamond-set platinum hands. M. Tonneau, 57 x 52 mm, gilt brass, 15 jewels, straight line lever escapement, cut bimetallic compensation balance, Breguet balance spring. Stamped ?RF? in lozenge on gold parts which also are stamped with French gold marks. Dim. Height 125 mm, base width 100 mm.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 2-01

Very good

HANDS Original

Notes

Built on the principle invented by Robert-Houdin for clocks, this clock appears to work without any mechanical movement. In fact, it is driven by the movement concealed in the base, the hands revolving with the glass plates.