THE GOLD COIN WATCH, CARTIER, CIRCA 1940

The circular silvered dial with Roman numerals and blued steel Breguet hands, outer minute track, gold circular case, the watch concealed within a 1893 gold five pound coin, depicting Queen Victoria and St. George, manual wind movement signed EWC and Co Inc., 19 jewels, dial and movement signed Cartier, case numbered, diameter approximately 36.5 mm, leather pouch, Cartier Inc. embossed to the exterior, THE DUCHESS OF WINDSOR.

Cf: Sotheby's, The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor, Geneva, Friday 3rd April 1987, Lot 252.

Cf: J. Barracca, G. Negretti and F. Nencini, Le Temps de Cartier, Italy, 1989, p.144 - 145 for examples of various coins fitted with watches by Cartier.

PLEASE NOTE WE DO NOT GUARANTEE WATCH MOVEMENTS Manual movement running at time of cataloguing. Movement recently serviced. The coin is opened by lifting a small section in the band. Case lid numbered 08443. Inside case numbered 31540. Movement signed EWC & co inc (European Watch and Clock Company). Dial with light spotting throughout and a few light surface scratches only visible with magnification. The 1893 coin case, with scuffs and slight indentations consistent with age and wear. Weighing approximately 34.6 grams. Pouch with creases, slight discolouration and wear to button. 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. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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 refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
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."

The coin watch was developed by Cartier in 1929 and intended for the pocket or handbag.   Watches at this period were also being incorporated into other objects including cigarette cases and lipstick holders.   Luxury accessories made from precious materials were being introduced into every day life where there was an eager audience more able to afford to purchase such novelties.