GERMAN | A VERY RARE GILT METAL BOOK FORM STACKFREED CLOCK WATCHCIRCA 1580

Movement: with alterations, gilt metal back plate, verge escapement, later dumb-bell balance, hogs bristle regulator possibly later with regulation scale to movement edge, later stackfreed spring and roller mounted on backplate, inset later countwheel, open springs to both trainsDial: gilt-metal, engraved chapter ring with Roman numerals, raised touch pins above each hour, the centre engraved with a blazing sun, dial surround decorated en suite with the caseCase: gilt metal book-form, chased and engraved with foliate scroll work and geometric motifs, the hinged strap catches (probably later), rounded grill above the dial with feather-form engraved decoration and roundels above each numeral, similar cover above bell to case back

The movement has undergone restoration and repairs: both springs are recent, the hour wheel also recent. Bell is possibly later, countwheel is later, stackfreed spring and roller later, hog's bristle regulator may be later, contrate wheel may have been changed. Wheel work generally looks to be good, pillars are also good.
"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."

In the 16th Century the main centres for watch making were Augsburg, Munich and Nuremburg. Although not signed this watch is almost certainly of German origin. Watches from this period were most commonly drum or tambour shaped and made of gilded brass. Examples in the form of books are rare. There is a spectacular example by Hans Koch, one of the leading makers in South Germany, in the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford. A clock watch with astronomical compendium, it demonstrates perfectly the fashion for portable luxury timepieces in this period. See: David Thompson, Watches in the Ashmolean Museum, pp. VIII-X & 8-11.