The circular dial applied with Roman numerals and Breguet blued steel hands, framed with rose diamonds, the reverse set with the name 'Jane' in similarly cut diamonds, dial signed Cartier, case numbered, minute repeater activated by rotating the bezel, suspended from an éventail shaped diamond-set brooch contemporary to the watch, several small diamonds deficient from watch and brooch.

Cf: Jessica Michault, "The Sound of Time", The New York Times, 8 March 2012.

Please note we do not guarantee watch movements. Mechanical movement in running condition at time of cataloguing. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of its time keeping and therefore a service should be carried out in the near future at the buyer's expense. Dial signed Cartier, caseback numbered 5726. Minute repeater is activated by rotating the bezel. Gong can still be heard when bezel is rotated, however the mechanism requires a service to be put in proper working order. Diamonds bright and lively; several small diamonds deficient from watch and brooch. Dial with signs of ageing. Signs of normal wear to the metal consistent with age and use. In good condition. Total gross weight approximately 30 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Invented in the mid-18^th century before the advent of electric lighting, the minute repeater was created to chime the sound of hours, quarter-hours and minutes, in separate tones, allowing for the telling of time in the dark. While no longer a function of necessity, such sophisticated complications are still produced today as a tangible way for watch makers to distinguish their technical capabilities. Antique models, such as this fine example by Cartier, are very rare and highly coveted by collectors.