A SMALL TWO-COLOUR 18CT GOLD TRAVELLING TIMEPIECE, CARTIER, PARIS, CIRCA 1929

A SMALL TWO-COLOUR 18CT GOLD TRAVELLING TIMEPIECE, CARTIER, PARIS, CIRCA 1929

of flat shaped rectangular form, the lid and base with with diaper engine-turning, the white gold flap pushpieces on each side opening the central lids to reveal a square dial with Arabic numerals and gold hands, inscribed: 'Eileen to Archie / April 2nd 1936', the interior of the right lid engraved: 'A. Sandford Wells / 45 Campden Hill Square / W8', maker's mark J.C incuse, French export mark, Glasgow import mark for 1929, serial number: 319, further struck: 18 C and 0.750, inscribed: BREV. DER. / Tavannes Watches / Swiss/ 082849 / 46
3.3cm.,1 3/8in. wide

Condition Report:
in good order; the polished sides and engine-turned base with some wear, commensurate with time and use. Overall weight 46.0 grams

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. 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.
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."

Provenance:
Archibald Sandford-Wells, born Coquimbo, Chile, in 1911, was married in June 1936 to Eileen Mary Johnson (1910-1984), so this was possibly an engagement present. He was a barrister who appeared frequently in cases at the Middlesex Sessions. He died suddenly in March 1961.