Lot 9
  • 9

J. H. Borel, London

Estimate
40,000 - 50,000 USD
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Description

  • A GILT BRASS MUSICAL AUTOMATON TABLE CLOCK MADE FOR THE CHINESE MARKETCIRCA 1780
  • height 23½ in (60 cm)
• 6-inch white enamel dial, Roman numerals • movement signed J.H. Borell, London, dead beat escapement, gridiron-style pendulum, the circular movement with gilt plates surmounted with an independently driven music box with fusee, twenty section comb grouped by four teeth, two tunes per revolution • housed within a drum-shaped case mounted with obelisk automaton fountain comprising seven revolving glass rods, sides with pierced panels of formal classical foliage, all supported on an openwork frame of four slender scrolls joined by swags of flowers shaped rectangular base applied with paterae, raised on ball and claw feet

Condition

The clock is in generally good condition, but would benefit from service. With grid iron-style pendulum. The music box must be released manually.
"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

Jean Henri Borel is listed in Baillie as working in London, Couvet and Fontaines between 1780 and 1821.