$3,600
Gübelin purse watch E. Gübelin, Lucerne, movement by Vacheron & Constantin. Made circa 1928. An extremely fine and rare Art Deco 18k yellow gold and black enamel purse watch. Accompanied by the original invoice, original leather pouch and the US passport of the purchaser. Rectangular, with black enamel geometric Art Deco pattern, the shutters open upon activation of the two side push-buttons. Silver, applied Art Deco numerals, black painted outer minute track. Rhodium-plated, 15 jewels, 5 adjustments, straight line lever escapement, cut bimetallic compensation balance, blued steel Breguet balance-spring. Signed on dial and movement, numbered on movement and case. Dim. 45 mm x 37 mm. Thickness 8 mm Notes Amazingly, this purse watch has remained in pristine condition. All black enamel to the case is in excellent overall condition with no chips or cracks, most probably having been kept in its Gubelin signed protective leather pouch. It is further accompanied by its original invoice stating that that day Mrs Wade bought 6 purse watches. This particular one is referred to as a “satchel watch of newest design and enameled case, first grade Gubelin lever movement.” Its price was Sfr 1877.20, a huge amount at the height of the depression. In comparison, the other satchel watches she bought in sterling silver and enamel cost Sfr 180.
Auctioneer:
Antiquorum
Date:
2010-03-10
