Cartier

 • gilt lever movement housed within the base signed European Watch & Clock Co., Inc., 15 jewels, three adjustments • white mother of pearl chapter ring with diamond-set Roman numerals, surrounded by a rose-cut diamond-set bezel, fleur-de-lis and arrow-form platinum hands set with rose-cut diamonds, framed within a mother-of-pearl border set with rose-cut diamonds • the upright rectangular rock crystal case (with slight chip) with gold frame and stepped top, bombé sides • all surmounted upon a 1988 factory replaced quadrangular onyx base with rounded corners, gold beaded trim • movement signed European Watch & Clock Co., Inc., base signed and hand-stamped with Cartier reference numbers

The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. Signed Cartier at the bottom, numbered 2178 and 1564. Mounted in yellow gold and platinum. Rock crystal in good condition, very small nicks, scratches, markings and abrasions. An interior chip (noted on the Cartier 2007 Valuation Report) measuring approximately 4 mm is apparent at the lower left base. Onyx base replaced in 2008, noted on Cartier's 2007 Valuation Report and on 2008 Certificate of Authenticity. Onyx in good condition, minor nicks, scratches and abrasions. A small area of material loss at the right side base measuring approximately 13 mm. Gold bead work trim slightly loose from the onyx base with one bead missing. Mother-of-pearl in very good condition. Diamonds bright and lively. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use and age. Gross weight approximately 910 grams.
"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."

Accompanied by a Cartier Certificate of Authenticity noting the repairs dated June 3rd, 2008, a Cartier Valuation Report dated December 7th, 2007, and a Cartier repair invoice dated February 27th, 2007. Together with a modern presentation box and key.

The Cartier "Pendule Mystérieuse" or "Mystery Clock" exudes a mystic elegance that has captured the imagination of Cartier collectors for decades. Inspired by the work of the 1850s French magician and clock-maker, Jean Eugene Robert-Houdin, Maurice Couet devised the first Mystery Clock in 1913 which was named "Pendules Mysterieuses Model A." This name resonates with automotive pioneer Henry Ford's "Model T" car of the same period and, fittingly, the first Model A was sold at Cartier New York to American financial magnate, J.P. Morgan Jr. Thus, the Cartier Mystery Clock demands an inquisitive mind-set, determined to decode its complexity, while appreciating its though-provoking beauty. The current example, Model A, features rotating rock crystal discs to indicate the hours and minutes. This mechanism is invisibly powered by gears hidden in the frame, while the onyx base contains the clock's movement.

For additional information and examples, see:
Barracca, J., Negretti, G., and Nencini, F., Le Temps de Cartier, Milan, 1989, pg. 99 for a similar clock.
Cologni, F., Nussbaum, E. Cartier: L'Arte del Platino, Milan, 1995, pg. 165 for a similar clock.
Nadelhoffer, H. Cartier, Milan, 2007, pg. 276 for a 'Model A' sketch and pg. 277 for similar clocks.