Important Collector's, Watches, Wrist...

Geneva, Hotel Des Bergues, Oct 15, 2000

LOT 425

Unsigned, Geneva, probably by Piguet & Capt, circa 1810.Very rare and fine gold and enamel perfume flask with concealed watch showing seconds.

CHF 160,000 - 180,000

USD 90,000 - 100,000

C. In the shape of a long oval flask with flat edges. The front with two fine panels, the top with painted enamel of a fruit basket, the bottom with floral engraving interlocked with translucent red and blue enamels. The bottom hinged and spring-loaded to reveal the dials when a small push-piece at the side is pressed. On the back: at the top an enamel of a vase with flowers, at the bottom an engraved vase against blue enamel background over a backgound engraved to imitate engine-turning. Borderin alternating azure and white enamels in a geometrical pattern, the sides in a classical style with translucent red, blue, and green enamel. The screwed enameled cap reveals a small stick for perfume application. D. White enamel, Breguet numerals, dot minute indicators, blued-steel "spade" hands, above a separate white enamel dial for small seconds. M. Hinged, rectangular 5 1/2???, fire-gilded full-plate, cylinder escapement, three-arm gilded balance, flat balance spring, brass escape wheel, mtor barrel. The seconds are driven by an additional wheel driven by the escape wheel pinion.Dim. 19 x 9 x 89 mm.


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 3 - 17 - 21
Movement: 4*

Fair

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 3 - 01

Notes

Such objects are of the finest execution. Perfume flasks, like pocket knives harps and snuff bottles, represent the high quality work and skill of Genevan goldsmiths and watchmakers. These works of art, never repeated in other watchmaking centers, such as Vienna, are the mastery of Geneva watchmaking.