A silvered-brass mounted ebonised musical automaton table clock, John Ward, London, circa 1780

7-inch shaped dial with painted floral spandrels and signed John Ward, Fore Street, London, subsidiary strike/silent and tune selection dials, the arch painted with a blacksmith forge and shoeing automaton scene acutated by the pendulum, the seven pillar three train fusee movement with verge escapement, trip repeat striking on a bell and playing one of six tunes at the hour or at will on a nest of eleven bells, the backplate engraved with foliate scrolls, the case with domed temple surmount, urn finials, floral terms to the canted corners, side handles and scroll feet

Dial painting restored, rings would benefit from resilvering, good original hands. Movement is complete and appears top retain the original wheelwork throughout although the escape wheel may be replaced, it is reasonably clean and looks as though it would run. Case has had extensive restoration which could be much improved, mounts lacking much their silvering, top finial probably replaced, front door lock defective. With a case key but no winder.
"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."

John Ward, son of John, a Freeman of the Musicians' Company, became Free of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers by patrimony in 1772 and was Master in 1797. Working at 9 Fore Street near London Wall, he is known for having made musical clocks and watches.