ABRAHAM DE LA GARDE, BLOIS | A SILVER AND GILT METAL OVAL VERGE WATCH WITH SUNDIALCIRCA 1590

Movement: gilt full plate, verge escapement, pierced and engraved cock, gut-line fusee, ratchet and click set-up, baluster pillarsCase: gilt metal, the front with later monogram C.W.J, the rear with pastoral scene, band with masks, two lute and foliate inhabited by birds, sundial and compass within  Dial: gilt metal, chapter ring, Roman numerals and touch pins, plate engraved with foliate inhabited by birds and dogs, mask at 12, central pastoral sceneDimensions: 66 x 40mmSigned: movement

CASE: in good condition, with some scuffs and scratches consistent with age. The monogram later. The engraving still retaining definition, rubbing to the outermost edge of the pastoral scene. DIAL: good condition engraving bright and retianing definition. MOVEMENT: running at the time of cataloguing. 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."

Abraham De la Garde was descended from a line of important and celebrated makers based in both Paris and Blois around the end of the 16th century. Such was the repute in which he was held that he was appointed clockmaker to Catherine de Medici in 1588 and to King Henry IV in 1591. His father, Jacques, probably the most famous maker in Blois during the middle of the 16th century, is thought to have made the earliest recorded French watch in around 1551. A spherical watch by him is also listed at the Louvre. A very similar piece by the same maker was presented as part of The Percy Webster Collection (lot 6) sold in these rooms on 17th May 1954.