Swiss

• gilt lever movement, cut bi-metallic balance, jewelled to the centre, two hammers striking on a gong for the repeating mechanism, gold cuvette • white enamel dial, Roman numerals, outer track for the minute indication, subsidiary seconds • the front cover with enamel plaque representing His Highness the Maharaja of Patiala, border surrounded by engraved floral arabesques, the band with chased and engraved leaf design, the gold back covered with the Coat of Arms of Patiala in enamel surrounded by chased and engraved floral arabesques, sliding device to the band for the repeating mechanism

Movement running while cataloguing, functions appear to be fully operational, a service is also recommended in the future in order to be well preserved. Dial with few minimal signs of wear, in a very well preserved condition. The case is in a very good condition, slightly scuffed to the surface. Overall this is a rare example from the period in a well preserved condition.
"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.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Maharaja Bhupinder Singh of Patiala was born October 12^th, 1891. During his reign, which lasted from 1900 to 1938, he introduced many social reforms in his region. He founded the State Bank of Patiala, he was also a great patron of sports, leading famous Indian cricket and polo teams. Among his many commitments, he served on the General Staff, occupying various positions during World War I; he represented India at the League of Nations in 1925, and was a representative at the Round Table Conference.

The Maharajah of Patiala was also great patron of Cartier. In 1925 he engaged them to remodel the crown jewels of Patiala, which has been described in Nadelhofer, Cartier, Jewelers Extraordinary, "In purely quantative terms, the biggest commission of all time."