Important Watches, Wristwatches and C...

Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Apr 12, 1997

LOT 441

Unsigned, Swiss, circa 1820. Fine and unusual quarter repeating automaton watch with auxiliary automaton scene.

C. Three body, Empire with reeded band and engine-turned back. Hinged gilt brass cuvette. D. White enamel chapter ring with Breguet numerals (slightly restored), The centre with a fine varicoloured automaton scene applied over a blued steel ground: an urn of flower on a bridge is flanked by two cherubs jacks striking hours and quarters on two bells; also driven by the repeating train, a subsidiary automaton scene below the arch of the bridge features a knife grinder whose grindstone is driven by a large wheel turned by a boy. Blued steel Breguet hands. M. Gilt brass full plate with cylindrical pillars, fusee with chain, verge escapement, plain brass three-arm balance, flat balance spring, gilt brass English style cock, the foot sunk within the decorative plaque applied on the back plate and engraved with flowers and foliage. Repeating on gong by depressing the pendant. In very good condition. Dram. 59 mm.