• gilt full plate verge movement, pierced and engraved balance cock, blued steel hammer repeating on nesting bell to the case • gilt metal rotatable dial, engraved Japanese characters to steel reserves, single hand • inner case pierced and chased with scrolls, outer repose case with a music playing scene • movement signed • all within a shitan wooden case engraved with flowers, the sides with pierced floral screens, handle to the top, with a later miniature table

Movement running at time of cataloging, however not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Case in good condition with light scratches. Some light wear to detail. Dial with spotting and some scratches. Outer wooden case in good condition, however the hinges/joints are worn and it needs to be repaired to remain together when moved.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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 any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.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."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Timekeeping in Japan was divided into two periods comprised of 12 total intervals, all based on sunrise and sunset and therefore of ever-changing lengths throughout the year. Each one of the intervals had a coresponding amount of chimes associated varying from 4 to 9. Additionally, later Japanese watches and clocks have a fixed hand with a rotating dial, as does the present lot. The movement was most likely sent unfinished and completed after arrival to Japan with the dial and case added.