Bockels, Haarlem

• gilt oval two train movement with verge escapement, replaced balance cock, split Egyptian pillars • silver oval dial, Roman numerals, single hand, the dial plate engraved with scrolls, a grotesque mask and what is likely a later inscription of Oliver Cromwell 1648, later central alarm disc • the substantial oval case with band pierced and engraved with foliate scrolls, the back centered by an openwork rosette and two shuttered winding holes, associated fishskin outer case, the bezel modified

Evan Roberts Collection, 1897

R. G. Meech

Despite alterations this is an early and interesting watch The dial, case, and movement principally 17th century, however the dial plate mostly likely with alterations to include the name Oliver Cromwell 1648. We can not be sure that the dial plate is original as the bezel and top lid are now pierced pin holes,clearly have been altered and would probably have original had either a solid silver cover or a cover that might have been pierced in some way in order to allow for the sound of the alarm . Movement alterations include the balance cock and count wheel. The countwheel now covers the city name for the maker and also includes several unexplained holes. The fishskin case is early but no way to know if it is as early as the watch. .
"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."

Watches by Bockels (or Bockelts, an alternative spelling) are known in both the British Museum and the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. Baillie notes this maker as working in the first half of the 17th century. For an illustration of a watch by Jan Jenssen Bockelts, circa 1600, see Thompson, D., The British Museum Watches, pp. 22-23

The present lot appeared on the cover of the 1897 catalogue of the Evan Roberts Collection.