• two train cylinder movement, pinned disc music work • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, the bezels, band, pendant and bow all set with split pearls • the cuvette applied with two enameled classically dressed automaton figures, one playing a harp and another, a mandolin, within an outdoor classical architectural setting • the case back painted with later polychrome enamel scene composed of a two lady's and a courtier against a landscape, the case hand stamped with the number 2416, movement attributed to Piguet & Meylan

Prominent American Family until present

Striking in phase, dial, music and automaton all in good order.  Substantial case, indicating good quality.  Back panel with later enamel, probably done in the early 20th century.
"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."

The enamel depicts a scene from a semi opera entitled, “King Arthur, or The British Worthy” by Henry Purcell in 1691.  The plot revolves around the blind Princess Emmeline and her maid, Matilda.  The Saxon King Oswald kidnaps the two women in an attempt to marry Princess Emmeline.  Thus, King Arthur comes to rescue her, and the two men engage in a duel for her hand.  Arthur wins the duel and spares Oswald’s life.  

Arthur also enlists the help of the magician Merlin to help Emmeline restore her sight.  Merlin creates a potion for her to drink that upon consumption cures her blindness.  The scene in the present lot depicts the momen꧋t when she regains her sight. She uses Matilda’s mirror to see her reflection for the first time.   

Two watches with this subject are in the Patek Philippe Museum, including one by Piguet & Meylan with quarter repeater and music, see Peter Friess, Patek Philippe Museum, The Emergence of the Portable Watch, vol III, 2015, pp. 437 and 465.

For a note on Piguet & Meylan, see lot 81.                                         ✱                                                                                                                                                                                               ꦕ