The Art of Horology in Geneva

Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Nov 13, 1999

LOT 180

Golay Fils & Stahl, Genève, 2 rue de la Paix ? Paris, No. 11423, produced in Geneva, circa 1900.Very fine and unusual silver gilt and enamel sweetbox with eight day going built-in watch, in original fitted box.

CHF 5,000 - 6,000

Sold: CHF 19,550

C. Double body, oval, the lobed side panels decorated with garlands of roses, painted over a green flinqu? enamelled ground. Enamel lid, painted with cherubs flying among clouds and centred with a built-in watch. D. Oval white enamel chapter ring with bold Breguet numerals, the centre painted with a galant scene in the 18th century style, depicting two maidens in a park, in the compagny of a gentleman. Rose-cut diamond-set hands. M. 20''', nickel plated, striped decotation, 15 jewels, straight lne lever escapement, cut bimetallic balance, Breguet balance spring.Signed on the box.Dim. 135 x 100 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3

Good
Movement: * 4 - 5
Dial: 3 - 01

Notes

Golay Fils & StahlGolay Fils & Stahl has its roots in the Geneva of the 19th century. Founded in 1837 by the clockmaker Golay-Leresche, it was located Quai des Bergues, 31, next to the Hotel des Bergues. In 1857, the firm passed into the hands of the founder's son who made complicated watches for both men and women and began exporting the firm's creations, primarily to the United States. At the beginning of the 20th century, the company was sold to Stahl, hence the current name of Golay Fils & Stahl. The firm's sccess continued and enjoyed an important clientele worlwide, including, among others, the King of Romania and the Maharajah of Barodah. In 1962, Jacques Wolfgang, father of the current owner Jesse Wolfgang, bought the company. As a specialist in diamonds, coloured stones and jewellery, he added a new style to the house's creations.