Important Collectors’ Wristwatches Po...

Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Oct 21, 1995

LOT 65

Jas. Cox, London, circa 1770. Fine and rare gold and enamel heart-shaped automaton pendant watch with concealed erotic scenes.

C. Three-body, gilt-metal frames, the bezels overlaid in gold decorated in champlevé blue and white enamel with diamond and clover pattern, the back with a promising mythological scene, opening to reveal the erotic tableau, one with a couple standing in a river, the gentleman clearly boasting of his continued standing despite the probable coolness of the water, and the lady checking to be sure that he will be able to maintain the stiff upper lip required in such circumstances; the other more to the point, with the gentleman on the point of plunging in despite the absence of water, although a porcelain receptacle rests discreetly under the bed in case of need. D. Heart-shaped enamel, with small Roman and Arabic chapter-ring at 6 o'clock with pink scroll border, the surround with a riverside landscape scene of two windmills, the automaton sails set with diamond chips. Bluedsteel hands. M. Heart-shaped gilt-metal plates, turned pillars, fusee with chais, cylinder escapement with brass escape wheel, plain brass balance and flat spring, the pierced English style cock with shaped foot. Signed on the back plate. In good condition. DUT': 55 x 43 mm.