IWC Schaffhausen

• cal. 95290 manual winding nickel lever movement, 54 jewels, mono-metallic compensation balance, repeating on steel gongs • slate grey dial, applied Arabic numerals, outer minute track, subsidiary seconds • 18k white gold polished case with satin-finished band, repeating slide to the band, snap-on sapphire crystal display back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k white gold IWC folding buckle

Please note that the movement has not been checked for timekeeping accuracy and Sotheby's will not be held responsible for any repairs should they be require. The movement is running at the time of cataloguing and the repeating mechanism is functioning. Dial in good condition. The case in very good condition and appears unused. Back still retains its protective plastic sticker. With a blank IWC certificate. **The leather strap of this wristwatch is made from endangered species; please refer to important notices for further information.**
"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 eye-catching reference 5242 Portuguese minute repeater is a very fine example of a Grande Complication, activating the slide in the case causes a strike train to sound the time out audibly in hours, quarters and minutes.
For Portuguese explorers out on the open sea, timekeeping was of crucial importance and it was necessity to combine the abstract concept of time into acoustic signs. A combinaton of a bell and hourglass were used, the bell would be struck once every half-hour and twice every full hour to provide an audible description of time passing.
Produced in a limited edition of 250 pieces, the reference 5242 is celebrating this legacy. The repeating mechanism consists of over 200 individual parts working together as if in a mechanical orchestra.