Important Watches, Collector's Wristw...

Noga Hilton, Geneva, Jun 14, 2003

LOT 239

Square "Oignon" Caillatre à Paris, circa 1690. Fine and extremely rare square gilt brass Louis XIV single-hand "oignon" watch.

CHF 28,000 - 32,000

EUR 18,000 - 21,000 / USD 22,000 - 25,000

C. Double-body, square, plain sides with molded base and top, pivoted winding shutter, loose-ring pendant.D. White enamel with bold radial Roman numerals, inner half-hour ring. Blued steel single hand. M. Hinged gilt brass full plate with urn pillars, fusee with chain, verge escapement with plain steel four-arm balance, flat balance spring, irregular gilt brass pierced and engraved single foot cock, Huygens slide regulator, worm-gear mainspring set-up with silver scale plate.Signed on the back plate.Dim. 62 x 62 mm.


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Grading System
Grade:
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

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

Notes

An exceptional and unusual watch that can also be a used as a clock. Furthermore, it can be placed horizontally or vertically. The movement differs from that of the typical "oignon" in its cock design and the set-up scale plate. Although no records clearly designate a Parisian Caillatre, there is mention in Denmark of a Jean Caillatre who was a protestant refugee, and possibly came from Paris. It is possible that this is one the watches he made before emigrating after the revocation of the Edict of antes in 1685. If so, Denmark became the richer for a very interesting and skilled watchmaker.