Two pairs of lorgnettes, early 20th century

the first, of platinum with openwork rose diamond-set handle in classical taste, apparently unmarked , irca 1910, in suede case for Robert Koch, Frankfurt-am-Main & Baden-Baden; the other, gold, maker's mark K.K, Vienna, 1922-1954

diamond example: lacking several rose diamonds from handle and would benefit from professional cleaning. wear to case. gold example: in good condition, some scratches and nicks to glass. For all sales which take place on or after 1 February 2015, please note that the rate of buyer's premium for each lot (charged as a percentage of the hammer price achieved for that lot) has been revised and shall be calculated at the thresholds set out below: Buyer's premium is 25% of the hammer price up to and including £100,000; Buyer's premium is 20% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £100, 000 up to and including £1,800,000; Buyer's premium is 12% of the hammer price on any amount in excess of £1,800,000. As stated above, the revised thresholds are effective as of 1 February 2015.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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.
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."

Founded in 1879 by Robert and Louis Koch in Frankfurt-am-Main, the firm quickly expanded and opened a branch in Baden-Baden. In 1883, it gained the title of ‘Court Jeweller’ and worked for many European Royal and Imperial Families such as the Czar of Russia and the King of Italy. The firm passed to the founders' grandsons and nephews, but it was ‘aryanized’  under the Nazi regime. The company thrived again in the 1950s and closed doors finally in 1987. For an emerald and diamond tiara, Koch, Frankfurt-am-Main, circa 1910, see Sotheby's Geneva, Magnificent Jewels, 14 May 2012, lot 411.