Dial: enamelCalibre: full plate verge movementCase: gilt pair cased, inner case with polychrome enamel portrait of a lady, outer case with a second polychrome enamel portrait of a ladyCase number: 2'802 Size: inner case 33.5 diameter; outer case 78 mm diameterSigned: cuvette and movement signed and numbered

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The dial with a very minor hairline between 6 and 7 o'clock, but it is otherwise intact. There is some service wear to all of the hands where they have been removed for servicing. The inner case with service wear throughout which is consistent with age. The enamel case back is in very attractive condition with some minor repairs around the winding hole and an area of restoration at 12 o'clock. The blue border with some additional restorations towards the edges and some minor losses. The outer case is attractive with nice engravings to the bezel and all wear consistent with age. The outer enamel back is discoloured and some areas of soft enamel restorations. There is also wear to the glazing and minor losses. The biggest area of repair is between 11 and 12 o'clock. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

Property of a Horologist A Fine Collection of Watches Paying Tribute to Time

Collected over a long period of time, the following 26 watches are the result of many discussions, countless research and auction battles. Each area of horology is represented from Chinese market and fine English makers, vintage and contemporary wristwatches. Masters such a LeCoultre, Breguet, Patek Philippe, Vacheorn Constantin and A. Lange & Sohne are featured and one theme is consistent throughout, which is quality. Sotheby’s is very pleased to have been entrusted with this collection and to present it to the market today.

William Carpenter from London was known for making watches featuring jumping seconds. They were usually intended for Eastern markets. His dials were always designed to be visually interesting with a variety of complications. There are examples of clocks and watches by William Carpenter at the Palace Museum, Beijing.