GERMAN | A GILT METAL BOOK FORM STACKFREED CLOCK WATCH WITH ALARM AND CALENDAR CIRCA 1580

Movement: single gilt metal frontplate, brass and iron open springs, verge escapement, plain two-arm steel balance, hogs bristle regulation, stackfreed mounted on backplate, separate rectangular striking movement, inset countwheel, polished steel striking gateCase: gilt metal, chased and pierced with foliate scroll work, hares and dogs, hinged strap catchesDial: silver champlevé chapter ring , Roman and Arabic hour numeralsDimensions: 74 x 50mmSigned: movement marked H, town mark indistinct  Accessories: none

CASE: shows some small losses to the gilt, particularly around the hinge. One of the clasps has been replaced. DIAL: this is in reasonable order with some losses to the chapter ring. There is a small hole later drilled to the bottom right hand corner. MOVEMENT: Running at time of cataloguing. Timepiece and striking movements appear to retain much of the original wheelwork, crownwheel probably replaced. Some spare unexplained holes to the front plate. We recommend personal inspection. The watch has not been tested to determine the accuracy of its timekeeping. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and that a service may be required at the buyer's discretion.
"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."