Continental

• two train movement • white enamel dial, the reverse with polychrome enamel scene of an architectural landscape, comprising four vari-color gold automaton figures including two operating a saw, one at a workbench and the last hammering a facade, with waterwheel and revolving glass rod simulating water • restoration and loss to enamel, now adapted into a late 19th Century Viennese silver gilt and enamel stand • drum form case, scroll pedestal on stepped base inlaid with blue enamel scrolls partly set with red pastes, automaton activated by the snake and eagle finial

Movement running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. The button for the automaton actuation needs to be repaired. Dial has chips and cracks, notably around the winding apertures. Case with loss of finish. the enamel has restoration between 12 and 1 o'clock position of automaton, small chips to enamel on building, the movement very dry and hence automaton figures not working. The watch cannot wind, and the click of the ratchet is broken. Some teeth on the cannon-pinion are broken. The movement would require a complete restoration.
"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."

For similar automaton depicting stonecutters, see Chapuis, A., and Gelis, E., Le Monde Des Automates, p.59, fig., 336