Important Collectors’ Wristwatches, P...

Geneva, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Du Rhône, Nov 12, 2006

LOT 185

"Cleopatra Dissolving the Pearl" Joseph Martineau Senior, London, No. 2454. London hallmarks for 1777-78. Very fine, 22K gold repousse pair-cased half-quarter repeating pocket watch. To be sold without reserve

CHF 8,000 - 12,000

EUR 5,000 - 7,500 / USD 6,500 - 10,000

Sold: CHF 11,210

C. Outer: two-body, repoussé, depicting Cleopatra dissolving the pearl in asymmetrical rococo cartouche pierced foliate outer border. Inner: two-body, "bassine", band pierced and engraved with floral pattern, mask at the front. Gilt-brass dust cap. D. White enamel, radial Roman numerals, outer arcaded minute ring, five-minute Arabic numerals. Gold "Louis XV" hands. M. 30 mm, hinged, frosted gilt full-plate with cylindrical pillars, fusee and chain, verge escapement, brass balance with flat balance spring, single-footed cock with diamond endstone, repeating on bell activated by depressing the pendant. Movement and dust cap signed. Diam. 50 mm. Property of a Swiss Gentleman


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Grading System
Grade: AA

Very good
Case: 3

Good
Movement: 3*

Good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-01

Good

HANDS Original

Notes

The subject of Cleopatra and the pearl became popular in art and a number of repoussé watch cases are known to feature it. This case, however, is of a different composition than other known cases. Joseph Martineau Senior was a very capable watchmaker. His watches are to be found in numerous museums. Repeating watches similar to this one are in the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Pierpont Morgan Collection) and the Mathematische Physikalische Salon in Dresden. He was active between 1744 and 1794, first establishing himself at Orange St., then in St. Martin?s Court. This lot was previously sold by Antiquorum, April 24, 2004, Lot 647.