Rock crystal, enamel, onyx, turquoise and diamond 'Mystery Clock', Cartier, 1925

The octagonal faceted rock crystal case set with black enamel Roman numerals and rose diamond embellished hands in the form of dragons, within a gold bezel decorated with a Greek key pattern, the corners and rim set with cabochon turquoise, on a rectangular onyx base and gold and black enamelled stand; measuring approximately 137 x 85 x 42mm, signed Cartier, numbered, charge key.

Cf: Hans Nadelhoffer, Cartier, Milan, 2007, pg. 281 for a sketch of a similar 'Mystery Clock'.

Cf: Franco Cologni, Eric Nussbaum, Cartier: L'Arte del Platino, Milan, 1995, pg. 173 for a similar 'Mystery Clock'.

Cf: Jader Barracca, Giampiero Negretti, Franco Nencini, Le Temps de Cartier, Milan, 1989, pg. 100 for an illustration of this clock and pg. 103 for a sketch of a similar 'Mystery Clock'.

Please note we do not guarantee clock movements. Mechanical movement in running condition at the time of cataloguing. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of its time keeping and therefore a service should be carried out in the near future at the buyer's expense. Accompanied by Cartier certificate of authenticity no. GE2001-307. Base signed Cartier, numbered N° 554 and 128034, movement numbered 684. Charge key numbered 00. Rock crystal in excellent condition. Black onyx in overall good condition, one very small nick by stem leading to dial and minor hairlines in unpolished black onyx behind gold framed base. Black enamel around bezel in good condition with a few minor spots of wear and a very small area of surface loss, only noticeable under very close inspection. Turquoise well matches in colour, in very good condition. Diamonds on hands bright and lively. In overall excellent condition, especially considering the date of this piece. Gross weight approximately 663 grams, gross weight of charge key approximately 1.8 grams.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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 refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
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