A gilt-metal grande sonnerie Turmchenuhr, Samuel Hauckh, Augsburg, circa 1615

3½-inch siver chapter ring engraved I-XII twice and enclosing a blue enamel and silver moon disc above an engraved gilt harbour scene, subsidiary dials above for strike control and a large subsidiary dial below for alarm setting, the other side with reversible 3½-inch calendar dial engraved with Saints for every day and enclosing a quarters ring and hour dial engraved I-XII twice, a subsidiary dial below for days of the week, the right side with a quarters recording dial, all silver dials with polychrome enamel decoration at the centre, the gilt-brass posted three train fusee movement twice signed Samuel Hauckh, Augusta, verge and balance wheel escapement, striking on two bells the left side with grande sonnerie count wheel connected to a subsidiary fusee movement in the base striking on a further bell, the case with five stage cupola enclosing two bells, the front and sides engraved with birds and flowers, corner pilasters, similarly engraved flared base raised on an ebonised plinth incorporating a key drawer

All movements appear to be complete but in need of a clean and service before they will run. Case with original gilding, rubbed on the base, one balustrade broken but we have the pieces. With three winders.
"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 tower clock or 'Turmchenuhr' was a popular form of case in South Germany from the early 17th century. Reminiscent of the early days of clockmaking where the only clocks were placed within the towers of public buildings, they were embellished with multiple finials and decorated with engraving to create a decorative work of art and, perhaps, distract the owner from the inaccuracy of the timekeeping.

This particular clock is a good and large example which includes many of the complications found on Augsburg masterpiece clocks of the 17th Century.  It is only the lack of astronomical indications that precludes it from masterpiece classification. However, the inclusion of the added complication of grande sonnerie striking makes it extremely unusual and producing a spring driven movement to provide this form of striking at this early date was a triumph of the clockmakers art.

Little is known of Samuel Hauckh but he was born around 1580 and became an independant clockmaker in 1612.  He died in 1637.