GEORGE DANIELS | MILLENNIUM A VERY RARE AND FINE YELLOW GOLD AUTOMATIC CENTRE SECONDS WRISTWATCH WITH DATE AND DANIELS' SLIM CO-AXIAL ESCAPEMENT NO MGRS 00 MILLENNIUM MADE IN 2000

Dial: silvered engine-turnedCalibre: automatic gilt brass jewelled slim co-axial escapement Case: 18k yellow gold, sapphire crystal display snap-on backCase number: MGRS 00Closure: yellow gold George Daniels buckleSize: 37 mm diameterSigned: case, dial and movement, case hallmarked for London 2000, maker's mark GD Accessories: A copy letter from George Daniels and presentation case

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The movement itself is beautifully executed with lovely sharp engravings. The dial is in exceptional condition with lovely craftsmanship, which is why Daniels and Roger Smith has become so sought after today. The case is in great condition with only very minor surface wear and the watch has seldom been worn over the years. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

Lord Sandberg The former Chairman and Chief Executive of Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC), fulfilling the role between 1977 and 1986, Lord Sandberg saw huge expansion of the business overseas making it a truly international organisation, and oversaw the construction of the landmark HSBC Main Building which was designed by Sir Norman Foster and was completed in 1985.

One of the most important watch collectors of the 20th century, Lord Sandberg amassed some 400 pieces that would be auctioned over the course of two days with Antiquorum Geneva in 2001, under the watchful eye of Osvaldo Patrizzi. The collection was predominantly focused on European pocket watches containing exceptional enamel work and went on to achieve some US$13m with a number of the top lots now on display at the Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva.

A keen follower of horse racing and cricket, Lord Sandberg was a member of the Hong Kong Jockey Club for nearly 60 years, serving as Club Chairman from 1981 to 1986, as well as being an Honorary Life Vice President of the Surrey County Cricket Club.

Sandberg passed away in 2017 at the age of 90, with Sir Li Ka-shing describing him as “a true friend of Hong Kong” and “instrumental in making Hong Kong the thriving financial centre it is today.” Through the Li Ka Shing Foundation, a scholarship fund was established in Sandberg’s name to support outstanding students from Hong Kong wishing to study in the UK.

Recognised as one of the greatest watchmakers of the 20th century, George Daniel devoted nearly his entire life in hope to redesign a mechanical watch by hand. One that can outperform the quartz movement. After many rigorous trials and tests, he had completed the design of the century by creating the co-axial movement in 1974. This design allows the watch to run virtually without sliding friction. Unlike the lever escapement, it disregards the viscosity of a lubricant.

The present lot made in 2000 is one of only 47 yellow gold examples ever produced. The watch is incredibly charismatic and truly British.