Breguet

• gilt movement, early form of straight line lever, early form of bi-metallic compensation curb on the regulator index • white enamel dial, Breguet numerals, symmetrical subsidiary dials for constant seconds and date, outer star minute divisions • polished case • dial singed and signed to the inner band

The present watch was exhibited at the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia, 2004 and illustrated in the catalogue exhibition, Breguet in the Hermitage, Slavia, p. 68.

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing. Dial in good condition. There are some very slight scuffs to the case but overall it is in good 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."

This watch is very characteristic of the early production from Abraham Louis Breguet between 1785 and 1787 from the same period as the first large model with 'perpetuelle' movements. The case designed here by Mermillod is also very similar along with the typical dials with Breguet numerals including minute divisions and five minutes stylised hour markers like fleur de lys, symbol of the French Royalty. From a technical point of view, the present example is also considered as one of the earliest known movement equipped  with lever escapements made by Breguet. This calibre is also unusual in the sense that it has the balance on the front plate beneath the dial with back plate for the escapement. It is in many ways a similar calibre to the 'perpetuelle'  fitted also with one of the first ever made jumping hour hand. Finally, the present example is also part of very few examples made with a ten minute repeating mechanism which makes it a highly collectable piece.