8,970 CHF
“Antony and Cleopatra” Vacheron et Constantin, Genève, the enamel signed NP. Made circa 1980. Very fine and rare, 18K brushed yellow gold and cloisonné enamel table snuff-box. To be sold without reserve. Notes Lots 79 and 80 are examples of the only self-winding pocket watch made by Gübelin. The watch was produced in only three examples. The watch’s striking cloisonné enamel decoration is based on astrological symbolism and themes. The dial features the planet Saturn, which governs the sun sign Capricorn. It is surrounded by six blue stars and a fiery golden ring that is reminiscent of the sun’s heat and energy. The decoration of the back makes reference to the creation of the astrological chart determining the position of the stars at the precise moment of an individual’s birth. It also features the planet Earth, with the continents of Europe and Africa, surrounded by two curved bands on which are depicted the twelve astrological sun signs, the whole being disposed so as to resemble an open eye. The watches thus evoke the eternal themes of destiny and fate, while the planet Saturn symbolizes fortitude, discipline, strength; and the effects of the passage of time. E. Pfleghard of Zürich (c. 1900 – c. 1975) was one of the most remarkable enamel artists working for Gübelin et the time of the watch’s creation. We are indebted to Monsieur Frank Lottenbach of Gübelin for providing us with details of the watch.
Auctioneer:
Antiquorum
Date:
2005-10-16
