Swiss

• nickel lever movement, bi-metallic compensation balance, presentation inscription to the 18k yellow gold cuvette • white enamel dial with hairlines and loss, Roman numerals, spade hands, recessed subisidary seconds • 18k yellow gold hunting case, both sides with bezels chased in scroll motif, both sides with polychrome enamel portraits of turbaned dignitaries dressed in embroidered robes and impressive jewels over opaque gray backgrounds, both signed J. Graff, one signature partially obscured by restoration • case and cuvette numbered 3635

The movement is running, however it will require service soon. The dial has hairline cracks, most notably extending from 11 o'clock, and a chip at 10 o'clock. The band of the case has dents throughout. As indicated in the catalogue text, there has been restoration to the enamel on the Maharaj side of the case which partially obscures the signature. This is accurately represented in the catalogue photograph. Both enamel portraits have surface scuffs. The other portrait is quite good.
"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."

The engraving on the cuvette of the watch reads 'Specially made for the Vazir Luchman, Saheb Private Secretary, to H. H., The Maharaj Saheb of Kashmir.' This presentation engraving suggests that the Maharaj, or great king, of Kashmir offered this watch as a token of his appreciation to his Vazir, a high-ranking political advisor.

Watches made for the Indian market, knowns as 'rajah watches' frequently made use of photographs sent from Indian dignitaries so that artists in Geneva could render the portraits in enamel. Of the half-dozen most esteemed artists specializing in this work, John Graff (1836-1902) rose to the top of his field.

These subjects presented a particular challenge to enamelers, as the color schemes favored by the subjects' dress were so vivid that work by less talented Western artists appeared gaudy. Graff's portraits, however, are a testament to his understanding of color, and portray the dignitaries in their intended grandeur. Furthermore, the portraits were done using often-blurry photographs sent from India as the basis, rather than seeing the subject first-hand or working from a clear likeness.

Because of his mastery in the field, John Graff's signature on watches and snuff boxes became highly sought-after throughout India. The present lot is testament to his popularity as an artist, with both portraits signed J. Graff in full, rather than simply J. G.

For further discussion of the 'rajah watches' and Swiss watch trade in India, see Jaquet, E. & Chapuis, A., Technique and History of the Swiss Watch, pp. 100 and 128-129. For images of similar watches with J. Graff's enamel portraits made for the Indian market, see the same text, pl. 133