Important Watches, Collector's Wristw...

The Ritz-carlton Hotel, Jun 06, 2004

LOT 487

Charles Bruguier, Rue des Pâquis 5 à Genève, No. 21, circa 1850. Fine and rare gilt silver and enamel singing bird box. Accompanied by leather fitted box signed Desoutter.

HKD 110,000 - 140,000

EUR 13,000 - 15,000 / USD 15,000 - 18,000

Sold: HKD 149,500

C. Rectangular with molded corners, florally engraved over engine-turning, top with Imperial blue enamel painted with flowers, white enamel borders, bird lid finely painted with alpine scene, reverse with bouquet of flowersM. Rectangular, 85 x 45 mm, brass, turned pillars, fusee and chain, rectangular bellows, bird with moving head, flapping wings, opening beak and tail, eight cams controlling the piston and the bird's beak and tail, two additional for the other movements, long duration of song with natural bird song alternating with a melody, precision cam-controlled lifting mechanism, gold grill pierced and engraved with floral pattern.Signed on the movement.Diam. 96 x 62 mm.


LOADING IMAGES
Click to full view
Image

Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 3

Good

Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: -

Notes

This box is illustrated on p. 266 of ?Flights of Fancy? by Sharon and Christian Bailly, Antiquorum Editions, 2001.