Zacharias Erb, Wein

• a gilt brass figure of Christ with arms tied to the column, the column mounted with a revolving globe for the time, silvered chapter ring with Roman numerals, the time indicated by the rope tip, all mounted on a gilt brass ground chased with decorative tile work, a silver dial at the front indicating I- IIII and engraved with foliate scrolls, cloisonné enamel now mostly lacking • the movement signed  Zacharias Erb, four train square plated movement with verge escapement, fusee and chain, later steel balance wheel, the balance cock pierced and engraved with an Austrian double eagle, irregular foot pierced and engraved with a bird and scrolls, count wheel calibrated from 1-12 and another 1-4, both standing barrels pierced and engraved one with a hound in pursuit of a hare and the other with a hound, similarly decorated gates • molded square ebony case, glazed panels to show the movement, base underside with a gilt brass foliate engraved hinged panel, with two fitted bells, elongated bun feet • movement with minor alterations

Sotheby's, London, 19 October 1964, 'The Percy Webster Collection', lot 196

 

The Clockwork Universe, Bayerisches Nationalmuseum, Munich April - September 1980
The Clockwork Universe, Smithsonian Institution, Washington D.C. November 1980- February 1981

Maurice, Die deutsche Räderuhr, fig. 404
Maurice and Mayr, The Clockwork Universe, pp. 238-239

 

Striking, but not going, going train is fully wound, the quality of the figure is finely modelled with rubbing to the gilding some rubbing to orb, gilding to ground is probably renewed, the movement is largely original however several holes are evident indicating some alteration, for example regulation which may have been hogs bristle is lacking, the globe is secured by a washer which must be a later replacement, the Christ figures missing half a finger, some old fractures casting flaws. The quarter striking dial would have been enamelled; now only very slight traces remain. Otherwise a strong piece. Service is recommended.
"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."

Zacharias Erb is listed in Abeler, Meister Der Urmacherkunst as working in Vienna at the beginning of the 17th century. The entry mentions a clock titled 'Christus an Matersaüle' exhibited in Staten Island in 1959 and is most likely the present lot.

The figure of Christ standing next to the Column is likely inspired by the school of Adrian de Vries. For further discussion on this reference see Maurice and Mayr, The Clockwork Universe, p. 238.