SWISS | A GOLD AND ENAMEL QUARTER REPEATING MUSICAL AUTOMATON WATCH FOR THE CHINESE MARKET CIRCA 1800

SWISS
A GOLD AND ENAMEL QUARTER REPEATING MUSICAL AUTOMATON WATCH FOR THE CHINESE MARKET
CIRCA 1800

gilded full plate movement partially engraved with fowers and foliage, cylinder escapement, pinned barrel musical movement, gilt cuvette bearing the signature Ellicott, Royal Exchange, London, quarter repeating on two steel gongs, small eccentric dial, engine-turned centre, Arabic numerals, restored polychrome enamel dial plate depicting a landscape, vari-coloured automata figures in the foreground of two musicians and a small bird, gold case with moulded band, slide in the band to activate the automaton, engine-turned case back with blank shield and applied monogram
diameter 62mm

Condition Report:
Movement: not running. loose parts. Music plays and automata function. Holes visible to the vari-colour automaton suggesting there is possibly a bird missing.
Dial: Scratches to the dial, hour hand bent. Enamel to dial plate restored and poorly painted.
Case: Worn, indentation and scratches. Signed of solder where the back cover has cracked. Applied initials - JM

"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."