The Private Collection of Theodor Beyer

Hotel Baur Au Lac, Zurich, Nov 16, 2003

LOT 48

The Forge of Love. Geneva, circa 1800. Fine and rare 18K gold double-train watch with independent automaton.

CHF 15,000 - 20,000

EUR 9,800 - 20,000 / USD 11,000 - 15,000

C. Two-body, polished with band pierced and engraved with foliate pattern, gilt cuvette hinged to the movement adapter ring. D. Small white enamel with Breguet numerals and outer gold minute divisions set at the top of the automaton scene. Blued steel Breguet hands. Automaton scene depicting three multicolored gold Cupids forging their love arrows; one hammering, the other sharpening the arrowheads, and the third maintaining the fire, the background painted on enamel with a rural landscape.M. 45 mm (20'''), hinged, engraved Lepine caliber with standing barrels, cylinder escapement, brass escape wheel, three-arm brass balance with flat balance spring. Automaton driven from its own train, adjustable eccentrically mounted pinion as governor.Diam. 55 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3-52

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-24-01

Good

Slightly chipped

HANDS Original

Notes

"The Forge of Love" is one of the most charming of Genevan automaton watches made in the early 19th century. Venus' son Cupid and his companions are working at a forge-perhaps that of Venus' husband Vulcan-to create their love arrows. Cupid (Eros)was the son of Venus. He was her constant companion; and with his bow and arrow, shot darts of love and desire into the bosoms of both gods and men. Even Venus became a victim of Cupid. One day, while playing with her son, Venus was accidentally wounded by one of his arrows. She thought nothing of it, but the wound was deeper than it appeared, and before it had fully healed she saw Adonis and fell in love with him. Completely smitten, Venus absented herself even from heaven, for Adonis was dearer to her than anything. She, who used to love to recline in the shade, with no care but to cultivate her charms, now followed Adonis everywhere, rambling through the woods and over the hills, dressed in a huntress' garb. Such was the power of the arrows forged in the Forge of Love.