DAVID KEYS | YELLOW GOLD KEYLESS HUNTING-CASED MINUTE REPEATING CHRONOGRAPH WATCH NO. 16649CIRCA 1885

Dial: enamel regulator style, Roman numerals, outer chronograph seconds, subsidiary seconds at 6, 60 minute recording at 12Movement: gilt 3/4 plate keyless wind English lever, diamond end-stoneMovement number: 16649Case: 18ct gold hunter, engraved monogram and coat of arms front and back, slide repeat and chronograph button to the bandCase number: 16649Dimensions: 57mm diameterSigned: movement Accessories: none

CASE: The front case, cuvette and bow stem are both marked with the same case maker AS, probably for Andrew Scott and stamped with London hallmark for 1882, and the reverse is stamped for 1895 so a later replacement. Overall the case is in good order with scratches and wear commensurate with age - one side has an engraved monogram, the other bears a coat of arms 'NIL DESPERANDUM', translating as ' never despair.' DIAL: No visible cracks MOVEMENT: running at the time of cataloguing in horizontal position but stops when in another position, the chronograph works and resets when activated, the repeating mechanism also in working order. 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."

There are two addresses for David Keys listed in London, one on the Strand around 1881 and one on Picadilly between 1863-1874 listed as, ' Watch and chronometer maker to the Admiralty' and interestingly, as whole saler. They would likely have supplied good quality watch movements elsewhere.