The Hartley cocktail watch

the manual winding watch with rectangular dial, blued steel hands and Arabic numeral indicators concealed behind a hinged cover of polished onyx inset with circular- and single-cut diamonds, reverse signed Hamilton Calcutta, to a later mesh bracelet, British hallmarks. 

Possibly acquired by Gertrude Hartley

Please note that this watch 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. Manual winding movement, not running at the time of cataloguing. Reverse of watch signed Hamilton Calcutta. Later bracelet, stamped with British hallmarks for 9 carat gold, Birmingham, date letter K for 1959. Diamonds bright and lively, estimated total diamond weight approximately 0.30 - 0.50 carats. Dial with some discolouration and residue. Bracelet clasp and hinge to cover in good working order, closing securely. Onyx black, opaque. Scratches to all surfaces consistent with age and wear. In good condition.
"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.
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."

Hamilton & Co. Ltd was a prominent silversmith and jeweller founded in 1808 by Robert Hamilton (1772 - 1848), operating under license from the British East India Company. The first British silversmith to be established in Calcutta, Hamilton & Co. produced silver and items of jewellery for the British market, slowly expanding in throughout the country and earning the nickname 'the Garrard of India'. The Hartley family were exactly the sort of Anglo-Indian family who would have patronised the company.