Lot 46
  • 46

Swiss

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
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Description

  • A SMALL GOLD AND SILVER MONTRE A TACT WATCHCIRCA 1800
  • silver and gold
  • diameter 30 mm
• gilt cylinder movement • eccentric engine-turned gold dial, Roman numerals, blued steel moon-style hands • case with glazed aperture for the dial, sunburst pattern engine-turning, front with silver arrow pointer on engine-turned case, coin-edge band with applied hour markers • unsigned

Condition

The movement is not running and the balance is not rotating so will require restoration. The gilt engine-turned dial is in good condition. The hinge to the movement is missing the pin. There are some very slight scuffs to the sunburst engraving and a couple of the applied hour markers are discolored. Overall the definition to the case is 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."

Catalogue Note

The Montre à Tact watch was invented by Abraham Louis Breguet in the late 1790s. The user is able to determine the time by moving the pointer in a clockwise direction until it is halted by the watch mechanism. By feeling where on the dial the arrow has stopped (facilitated by raised touch markers at every hour) the user can tell the time. This feature is extremely useful at night when it is too dark to see or when one are is a situation where it would be inappropriate to check the time in polite society.