Saturn Gübelin

Saturn Gübelin, Suisse, No. 137938, enamel by E. Pfleghard of Zürich, sold in October 1952. Fine 18K gold and enamel keyless center seconds self-winding dress watch, made in only three examples. Three-body, "bassine", massive, back decorated in cloisonné enamel with the Earth, its celestial projections and Zodiac signs, translucent dark blue enamel frame with sunburst gold motif, polished band and front bezel. Cloisonné enamel with Saturn, dark red sun with rays, and blue stars, applied gold indexes. Gold "Alpha pleines" hands. 26 mm. (11 1/2’’’) Felsa 690, rhodium-plated, "fausses-côtes" decoration, 25 jewels, straight line lever escapement, monometallic balance with self-compensating flat balance spring, Incablock anti-shock system on the balance, patented micrometric regulator.Signed on dial, case and movement. Diam. 45 mm. Notes Lots 261 and 262 are examples of the only self-winding pocket watch made by Gübelin; it was produced in only three examples. The decoration of the watch makes reference to astrological symbolism. The zodiacal projections on the back represent fate, and the representation of Saturn on the dial stand for strength, discipline, and the effects of time. E. Pfleghard of Zürich (c. 1900 – c. 1975) was one of the best enamel artists working for Gübelin. We are indebted to Monsieur Frank Lottenbach of Gübelin for providing us with details of the watch.