Dial: gilt metalCaliber: 17.5''' ligne manual winding, 16 jewelsMovement number: 321906Case: 14k yellow, pink and green gold engraved, hinged gold cuvette Case number: 9467Dimensions: 50 mm diameterSigned: case, dial and movement

CASE Case his chased throughout. Some areas, especially to the front of the case are more 3-dimensional than other areas. Normal case wear and scuffing, but the case retains a wonderful and arresting quality. Some oxidation throughout - heavier oxidation to the pink gold areas especially toward the bottom of the case. The case back with some heavier wear. Bow with wear and some small nicks. The total diamond weight is approximately .5 cts. Diamond has not been tested for quality. DIAL Crystal glazing with some light wear and scuffs. Dial with wear and like patina throughout. Small scuff mark at 6. Oxidation to center arbor. MOVEMENT Movement is operating. Some surface spots and light signs of oxidation. The movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
"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 present lot features a strikingly chased case overflowing with tropical palms. A fierce viper stirs within and strikes a forbidden fruit, a sparkling Old European-cut diamond set to the case.  Established in the 1850s as Borel-Courvoisier, the firm won several awards including the Neuchatel Observatory timing accuracy competition in 1866. Later renamed Borel Fils & Cie, the firm often specialized in manufacturing quality timepieces for the European and Russian markets.