FRANCOIS PONCET | GOLD AND LAPIS LAZULI VERGE WATCH CIRCA 1780

Dial: white enamel, Roman numerals, Arabic outer track, dial signed Poncet A DresdeMovement: gilt full plate, verge escapement, pierced and engraved balance bridge, signed Poncet A DresdeCase: gold and lapis lazuli, gold decorative strapwork in basket-weave designDimensions: 44mm diameter

DIAL: the dial has some small cracks around the winding aperture. CASE: The case is in good order with no visible cracked fissures to the stone, however there is evidence of some glue around the lapis sections visible under UV light. Some of the strap work has lifted by the hinge. There is a small repair to the strap work by the push-piece. MOVEMENT: the watch ticks when wound but is untested for timekeeping Please note that the movement has not been tested for 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."

Francois Poncet (1714-1804) was the court clockmaker to the Princes of Saxony  & Kings of Poland. A watch with very similar lapis Lazuli and gold strapwork by Vaucher, Paris was sold in Sotheby's, London on 26th February 1998, lot 43.