Dial: enamelCalibre: patented detent escapement Movement number: 197'194Case: 18k pink gold, cuvette, hinged backCase number: 197'194Size: 59 mm diameterSigned: movement and cuvette signed and numbered, case numbered

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The dial is intact and in very nice condition. The case is very nice and heavy. The hinges are nice and tight. The engine turned lid is very crisp. There is a monogram to the front lid that reads SL. The case with very light surface wear which is more than consistent with the age of the watch. 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."

It was in 1856 that Girard-Perregaux was born. The marriage of Constant Girard and Marie Perregaux formed this famous Swiss watchmaker whom is today associated with quality and excellence. The following two watches pair tribute to Girard-Perregaux and two particular complications. The first, the three bridge tourbillon is now part of the firms genetic code and this particular complication is associated immediately with the brand.  The tourbillon, or rotating escapement carriage was patented by A.L. Breguet in 1801. The purpose of the tourbillon is to eliminate errors in the balance by revolving the escapement continuously to produce a uniform average rate. The second, the Spring detent escapement is to increase accuracy. In a lever escapement, the escape wheel teeth and palette fork generate a lot of friction between them. The detent was designed to eliminate the palette fork and alter the balance wheel so that it will only interact the escapement once a second when changing direction. It is the detent that changes the direction of the balance wheel. Instead of a lever escapement that connects multiple times per second, the detent escapement only connects once per second, subsequently the friction of the parts were reduced.

The following two lots, both three bridge examples pay homage to these incredibly important complications invented over 200 years ago.

The three-bridge configuration was patented by Girard-Perregaux in 1884 and still be the most iconic feature of the brand today. The present watch is also cased in a heavy pink gold hunter case with the initials of the name of the original owner to the cover.