Manufacturer: Bovet Year: 2010 Reference No: A800.0 Case No: 002187 Model Name: Le Panda, No. 1 Material: 18k pink gold Calibre: Automatic, 25 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Black Bovet crocodile strap Clasp/Buckle: 18k pink gold Bovet buckle Dimensions: 35mm diameter Signed:Case, dial and movement signed Accessories:Bovet sale tag.
Catalogue Essay
Bovet’s history reaches back approximately 200 years when there was a strong demand in Asia for finely made enamel pocket watches. Begun in 1822 by Edouard Bovet, the business operated out of England, but the watches were produced in Fleurier Switzerland. While the demand for exquisite enamel pocket watches has declined, there is a strong market for lovely enamel wristwatches. The present "Le Panda" is a whimsical example of the very fine art of enamel work and horology. The yellow flinqué enamel dial is highlighted by a polychrome cloisonnè panda eating bamboo shoots. Marked ‘Numero 1’, this watch provides a fun and alternative to the complicated watches of our times.
The firm Bovet 1822 has a rich, centuries-long history beginning when Edouard Bovet sold four decorative pocket watches in Canton Asia for what would today equal $1 million. By 1822, Edouard, with his brothers, registered the company in London, which at the time was an important center for watches and clocks. That same year, they moved their manufacturing center to the Swiss municipality Fleurier. Bovet became known for their highly decorative pocket watches for the Chinese market. Their richly engraved movements were so important to the watch that Bovet created the concept of the transparent watch back so owners could see the beauty of the movement. Bovet's oversized chronograph wristwatches, such as the Mono Rattrapante chronograph, are especially sought-after. Today, the firm continues their tradition of exquisitely enameled watches.