Cartier

• circular manual winding movement • ribbed gold dial, tapered baguette and round-cut diamond-set indexes • 32-sided case composed of mirrored surfaces, the edges enhanced by gold rope-twist accents, the corners set with round-cut diamonds • with a gold tripod support signed Cartier London, designed by R. Emmerson

A charming and cleverly designed piece. The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The dial shows some oxidation or warmth around the diamond-set numerals, particularly at 12 o'clock. The case is quite exceptional, in very well defined condition throughout, with a few light minimal surface scuffs to the mirrored surfaces. The gold marks are quite clear. The stand is also in very crisp and well defined condition, with perfect legibility to the markings throughout. The Cartier presentation case is fitted specifically for the unusual shape of the piece. Please note that the piece can sit either independently or within its stand easily.
"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."

The total diamond weight is approximately 3.08 cts.

With a Cartier Certificate of Authenticity confirming sale in 1958. Further accompanied by a fitted box custom-fitted for the unusual shape of the present lot.

When seated on its tripod-form support, the present lot is strikingly similar in appearance to Sputnik, the catalyst of the Cold War-era Space Race. This resemblance is no coincidence, as the satellite was launched in October 1957, the year before the recorded date of sale for this timepiece.

The designer of this piece was Rupert Emmerson of Cartier's London atelier. Trained at London's Chiswick School for the Arts in jewelry design, Emmerson was among the most skilled artisans at Cartier in the era. In his book, Cartier: Jeweler Extraordinary, Hans Nadelhoffer points out that earlier in his career, Emmerson was commissioned as the designer for the insignia stamped on all objects created by Cartier during World War II. During this period, the firm's London workshops were devoted to creating wartime necessities such as airplane parts.