The coral-hued dial with Arabic numeral indexes and stylized arrow hands, within a silver-gilt case applied with black and red lacquer, the frame and base composed of agate, coral and onyx carved and applied in geometric motifs, further decorated with cabochon rubies, onyx and agate sugarloaf cabochons and coral beads and rings, measuring approximately 5 by 6 by 2¼ inches, the mounts composed of 18 karat gold, manual movement, the gold mounts signed Lacloche Frères, with French assay and partial workshop marks, the case signed Lacloche Frères, numbered 892, with scratch numbered 7.5.5.D.V., with French assay and workshop marks; circa 1930. With signed and fitted box.

In good condition. The clock is set with a mechanical movement that is currently running. The black enamel case is in very good condition and orange enamel top accent and dial are in good condition, the top accent displaying minor loss of enamel at the edges. Light tarnish on the gold mounts is present, as well as porosity to the gold on the back of the case at the point where the case opens. The coral mounts are in good condition and display a strong reddish orange hue with very light banding and a few minor polyp marks visible upon close inspection. The banded agate displays a fairly even brownish grey blue hue. The cabochon rubies display an even purplish red hue. The signature appears at the bottom left side of the clock support. Potential bidders who intend to export this lot are advised that certain permits are required for export. If you are interested in this lot, please contact the Jewelry Department before bidding.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Potential bidders who intend to export this lot are advised that certain permits are required for export. If you are interested in this lot, please contact the Jewelry Department before bidding.

With its sleek geometric forms and bold, Eastern-inspired color palette, the present clock by Lacloche Frères epitomizes Art Deco style. Eastern symbols and aesthetics proved the perfect companion to the crisp lines of the Art Deco era, with design firms incorporating Chinese, Indian and Egyptian-inspired motifs into their works.

The present example takes a form that resembles a Chinese gong, suspended within an angular frame and rested upon a plinth. The colors too hold symbolic meanings in Chinese culture, with red symbolizing fire, good fortune and joy and black often symbolizing the neutrality of water. It is fitting that Lacloche Frères would pick this color palette, as the yin and yang quality of the hues sits in harmony with its repetitive square and rectangular motifs.

At the time this clock was made, Lacloche Frères was considered one of the finest jewelers in the world. Having taken over Fabergé's London workshop in 1920, the firm gained popularity for their intricate designs, most notably with vanity cases, boxes and clocks. The present example, created at the height of the firm's popularity and created in a purely Art Deco form, is a rare glimpse into the elegance of the Art Deco time.